Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the US. The American Cancer Society estimates almost 106,970 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in 2023. Overall, the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 23 for men and 1 in 26 for women. Assess your risk for colon cancer with our online health risk assessment.
Thankfully, increased screening and preventive measures have led to a decrease in the overall incidence of colorectal cancer since the mid-1980s. Today, physicians have several screening tools they can use, including less invasive methods that allow patients to become increasingly proactive in managing their health and well-being.
- A stool-based test known as a fecal immunochemical test (FIT), has become popular because it is typically done at home, with minimal preparation required. The FIT test looks for hidden blood in the stool. This can be an indicator of blood vessels found in larger colorectal polyps or cancers that are often fragile and easily damaged by the passage of stool. Your physician will give you the supplies you need for testing. The kit includes detailed instructions for collection and how to return your sample.
- Most patients are familiar with a traditional colonoscopy. During this test, your physician uses a specialized camera to examine the entire length of the colon and rectum for early signs of cancer. A flexible tube with a light and small video allows physicians to use special instruments to take biopsies and/or remove any suspicious-looking areas, such as polyps, for lab testing.
Data shows that early diagnosis of colorectal cancer is key to a more successful treatment and recovery plan. It can save lives. These screening tools can help detect colorectal cancer long before symptoms appear.
At SSM Health, we encourage you to have a regular conversation with your primary care physician about your colorectal health, even if you’re not having any symptoms. Together, you’ll discuss the benefits of each test and choose the one that’s right for you.
