Colorectal Cancer Screening: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview
Various tests and procedures are used to detect abnormalities in the colon and rectum in order to make colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps easier to treat.
Preparation
Screening for colorectal cancer should be conducted before:
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Patients should consult their healthcare provider about their medical history, family history of colorectal cancer, and any symptoms they may have.
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Depending on the screening test chosen, patients may need to follow specific preparation instructions, such as dietary restrictions, bowel preparations, and medication adjustments.
Procedure
Screening methods for colorectal cancer include:
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A colonoscopy involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the rectum and colon to examine the entire colon. Polyps may be removed for biopsy during the procedure.
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The Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) detects hidden (occult) blood in stool samples, which may indicate colorectal cancer or polyps.
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The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) detects blood in stool samples similarly to FOBT, but it targets human blood and is more sensitive and specific.
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Sigmoidoscopy with flexible tube: This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the rectum and lower colon to check for polyps or abnormalities.
Recovery
After colorectal cancer screening:
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Patients may experience mild discomfort, bloating, or gas following certain procedures, such as colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. These symptoms usually subside within a few hours.
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In most cases, patients can resume normal activities and diet immediately after screening.
Risks
Screening for colorectal cancer is generally safe, but there are some risks associated with specific tests.
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Colonoscopy complications include bleeding, perforation of the colon, and adverse reactions to sedation.
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Screening tests can produce false positive or false negative results (indicating cancer when none is present) as well as false negative results (failing to detect cancer or polyps).
Aftercare
After colorectal cancer screening:
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Patients should follow up with their healthcare provider to discuss the results of their screening test and determine if further evaluation or follow-up is necessary.
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Colorectal cancer screening is recommended for individuals with average risk based on age and risk factors.
Detecting and treating colorectal cancer at an early stage when treatment is most effective is possible with colorectal cancer screening, a key component of preventive healthcare. Individuals can protect their health and well-being by understanding the overview, preparation, procedure, recovery, risks, and aftercare associated with colorectal cancer screening.
