Backspin Volume 4, Issue 1 | Page 29

healthspin

If you are one of those patients that gets the yips when your doctor tells you to have a colonoscopy , you are not alone .
Many Americans skip this test that looks at the inner lining of your large intestine because they are afraid , or don ’ t know what to expect . Yet an outpatient colonoscopy is the single most important thing you can do to prevent getting colorectal cancer . So , if you haven ’ t done so and your doctor recommends it , make a New Year ’ s resolution to get a colonoscopy as soon as possible
Ẇhat Is Colorectal Can-
From the medical professionals at North Oaks Health System

Shhhh ... let ’ s talk colonoscopy .

cer ?
Colorectal cancer is a term used for cancer that starts in the colon or rectum . These cancers may also be referred to as colon cancer or rectal cancer , depending on where they begin .
• Polyp -- Most colorectal cancers begin as a polyp , a small growth of tissue that may grow into the colon or rectum if not removed . Polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy .
• In Situ -- Cancer has formed , but it is not yet growing into the colon or rectum walls .
• Local -- Cancer is growing in the colon or rectum walls ; nearby tissue is not affected .
• Regional -- Growth is into tissue or lymph nodes , beyond
the colon or rectum walls .
• Distant -- Cancer has spread to other parts of the body , such as the liver or lungs .
Many cases of colorectal cancer have no symptoms or warning signs until the cancer has spread . Colonoscopies can help prevent colorectal cancer or find it at an early stage , when it is smaller and easier to treat .
What Are the Personal Risk Factors ?
• Age -- Although a person can be diagnosed with colon cancer at any age , 90 percent of colorectal cancer is discovered in individuals age 50 and older . Therefore , being over the age of 50 is considered a risk factor .
• Personal History of Polyps
or Cancer - If you have a history of adenomatous polyps ( adenomas ), you are at increased risk of developing colorectal cancer . If you have had colon cancer , even if it has been completely removed , you are likely to develop cancers in other areas of the colon and rectum .
• Family History - If you have a family history of colorectal cancer , talk to your doctor about screenings . It is recommended you have a colon screening before age 50 if you have a family history of colon cancer .
• Personal History of Inflammatory Bowel Disease ( IBD ) - IBD , which includes
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