Colon cancer screening tests are vital in detecting cancerous and precancerous cells before symptoms are visible. Several screening methods are available such as colonoscopy, CT colonoscopy, stool DNA test, and a fecal immunochemical test. This article answers common questions regarding colon cancer screening:

Does Colon Cancer Screening Foster Early Detection?

Cancer is a very aggressive disease that spreads quickly. Thus, it is vital to detect it early since your chances of successful treatment decline as it progresses from one stage to another. Regular colon cancer screening is the most reliable method of early detection at your disposal because it finds cancerous cells before any symptoms are visible. The screening helps doctors identify polyps that can potentially be cancerous and remove them before they cause any harm. Moreover, early detection of colon cancer provides patients with multiple treatment options compared to late detection, where doctors combine aggressive treatment methods. Ultimately, it is vital to get regular colon cancer screening to guarantee better odds of survival.

What Are Some Risk Factors of Colon Cancer?

Though anyone can get colon cancer, some people are more at risk of developing the disease. Thus, consider getting regular colon cancer screening services since the doctor will educate you on the risk factors contributing to colon cancer. For example, the doctor will inform you that adults above 45 have an above-average risk of colon cancer and should get screening on an annual basis. Moreover, the doctor will investigate your family history to identify hereditary risk factors. For instance, in parents and siblings, people with a history of chronic inflammatory bowel disease, a family history of colon cancer, or diseases like Lynch syndrome are highly likely to get colon cancer. Thus, regular screening will help you understand the risks influencing your health.

What are the Financial Benefits of Timely Colon Cancer Screening?

Cancer treatment is costly because of the high cost of developing new drugs, buying medical devices, and equipping surgical rooms. Moreover, patients require considerable recovery time before doctors can declare they are cancer-free. However, regular colon cancer screening can mitigate some of those disadvantages by helping doctors detect the disease early. Early detection avails cheaper treatment options compared to a patient in stage 3 or 4 cancer who will have to combine at least two treatment options to increase chances of survival. Moreover, the treatment after early detection will not be as aggressive, meaning your body will have the strength to repair itself, reducing recovery time and allowing you to get back to your routine. Overall, regular screening will help save you money and reduce treatment and recovery time.

For more information on colon cancer, contact a professional near you.