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Colorectal cancer is a cancer of the lower digestive system, which includes the colon and the rectum. There's more than one option for a colorectal cancer screening. That's only if you don't have bowel issues and are of average risk.
A colonoscopy allows your doctor to check for polyps and other issues inside the rectum and colon, and, if necessary, remove them.
"A polyp is a small, wartlike growth that initially may even be asymptomatic. Over time, those polyps may form into cancer, says Dr. Johanna Chan, a Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist.
"If we're able to detect the colon polyps at a small and early stage, and resect them completely, we can actually prevent colon cancer from developing in the first place."
Bowel prep for a colonoscopy can be difficult for some. Other tests may be a better option.
"And for some patients who might otherwise not undergo any screening, there certainly are alternatives, including noninvasive stool testing, certain imaging modalities, like CT-based testing."
"Speak with your provider and your physician with an appropriate family history and symptom history, and have your team help you pick the right screening modality."
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network
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