Screening for Colon and Rectal Cancer
Patients Cancer of the colon and rectum is one of the major causes of cancer-related death in the United States today in both men and women. More than 150,000 Americans each years are found to have colon and rectal cancer; about 60,000 of these patients die each year of their disease. Detecting and treating cancer early is the key to curative treatment, and to the prevention of cancer-related death.

Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. Most cancers are thought to come from "polyps," which are small, benign (non-cancerous) growths on the lining of the colon and rectum. It is believed that ten to fifteen percent of all persons have polyps. Since most polyps cause no symptoms, people who have polyps are usually totally unaware of this condition. Fortunately, not all polyps turn to cancer. But, depending on the specific type and size of the polyps, many do become malignant. Detection of polyps before they become malignant can prevent cancer and save many lives.

If polyps can be found early, while they are benign, then they can be removed and never do develop into cancers. Even if cancer is already present, early detection, before the cancer has had a chance to spread, is the most important factor in curing cancer and saving lives.

To detect cancers and polyps early, we believe it is wise to perform certain examinations at regular intervals. The American Cancer Society recommends that screening for colon and rectal cancer begin at age 50. While the risk of colon and rectal cancer starts to increase after age 50, the risk of polyps begins to rise after age 40. Because of this fact, we suggest that the screening process begin at an earlier age. For the average person, who is not at high risk for developing polyps or cancer, we recommend the following program:

After age 40:

  • Every year check stool for hidden blood (Hemoccult test).
  • Every three years consider a flexible sigmoidoscopy (an examination of the rectum and lower colon with a flexible lighted instrument).
Certain individuals have a higher risk for developing polyps or cancers of the colon and rectum.

This high risk group includes persons with:

  1. Previous history of polyps or cancer of the colon or rectum.
  2. One or more closely-related family members with polyps or cancer of the colon or rectum.
  3. A prior history of cancer of the breast or female organs.
  4. Certain kinds of inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis.

For patients in the high risk group, we recommend the following program:

  • Every year: check stool for hidden blood (Hemoccult).
  • Every three years: colonoscopy (examination of the entire colon with a long flexible instrument).

For persons in the high risk group, these screening procedures should begin as soon as the patient is discovered to be at high risk, not necessarily waiting until the age of 40.

Only through a vigorous, aggressive approach can we detect cancers and polyps early, in the most curable stages. During these stages, there may be no symptoms. We believe that this approach can keep most people from getting colon cancer and offer a higher chance of complete cure to those who do have cancer by early detection of problems.

If you have any further questions about this information, or how it might apply to your individual situation, please do not hesitate to ask us.

Flexible sigmoidoscopic exams can be arranged through our office. Just call Lori at 206-386-3600 and she can get you set up for one. It could save your life. If colonoscopy is indicated in your case we can arrange that for you as well.

Back to the Women's Health Patient Information page