Colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. It occurs when a polyp (growth) in the lining of the colon or rectum turns cancerous. Because it is a slow growing cancer, it can be cured with surgery if caught early enough through regular screenings.

Signs and Symptoms

For many people, there are no signs or symptoms of colon cancer. That’s why regular screenings are so important.

However, if symptoms are present, the most common signs and symptoms of colon cancer are:

  • Rectal bleeding
  • Blood in the stool (bright red, black or very dark)
  • Temporary change in your bowel movements, especially in the shape of the stool (e.g., thin like a pencil)
  • Pain in having a bowel movement or the urge to move your bowels without having a bowel movement
  • Frequent cramping pain in your lower belly
  • Frequent gas pains
  • Weight loss without dieting

Who should get screened?

If you’re 45, it’s time to start screening. To emphasize, I tell my patients not to put it off. Colonoscopy screenings should happen every ten years between ages 45 – 75. From ages 76- 85, people should discuss with their provider whether to continue screenings based on health status, past screening results, life expectancy and individual preference. After the age of 85, it is no longer recommended to get screened. On the other hand, if you are at higher risk or have a family history of colon cancer, you should discuss with your provider when to get screened.

Types of screening

A colonoscopy is the best screening and cancer preventing tool because the doctor can see and remove precancerous polyps. Additionally, if normal, you only need a colonoscopy every 10 years. You may have heard about stool test kits you can do at home. While these tests are good at detecting cancer, they can’t detect precancerous polyps or prevent cancer, and they need to be repeated every 1 to 3 years.

The prep isn’t so bad anymore

Good news. It’s not that bad. First, changes have been made that cut the amount you have to drink before the procedure in half. It is also common to split the prep, drinking half of it the day before your colonoscopy and half the day of your procedure. And, it’s better tasting than it used to be since you can mix the powder with things you like such as apple juice or Gatorade.

What you can do to help prevent colon cancer

  • Get a colonoscopy starting at age 45
  • Lose weight
  • Exercise
  • Eat a low-fat diet
  • Stop smoking
  • Limit alcohol use

Getting screened for colon cancer is an important part of a patient’s health care and it should not be ignored. I view this as similar to having mammograms to find breast cancers early, taking your blood pressure and cholesterol medication to prevent heart attacks, etc. Unfortunately, we see patients who have put tests off which is leading to a later diagnosis when the cancer is more advanced. As much as we may not like some of these tests and procedures – they are very helpful in preventing cancer, improving overall health, and making sure people get to enjoy their time on this earth with their family/friends.

To learn more about your colon cancer risks and screening options, talk to your provider.

Jennifer Stong, MD

Family Medicine

Perham Health