My name is Jamie Turner and when I turned 22, I started to form a horrible case of acne. I used every cleanser and lotion I could find and I even asked my physician for a topical steroid cream to clear up the zits on my face. After six months of treatment, my physician completed a blood test that concluded that a hormone imbalance was causing my acne. I started on therapy to control the amount of estrogen my body produced. The therapy along with a good diet and exercise regimen helped to clear up my acne. I am sharing my story, because acne is not just a condition that affects teenagers. It can affect adults at any age, and it can cause a great deal of embarrassment. Don't let your acne go untreated. Read my blog instead and learn about both natural and medical treatments that can help you.
Early detection is crucial in preventing and treating colon cancer, making it one of the most manageable and preventable types of cancer. Screenings for colon cancer have been pivotal in early detection and increased survival rates, yet many people still avoid this life-saving measure due to a lack of knowledge or fear of the procedure.
Let's demystify the process and highlight why screening is crucial.
Understand the Importance of Regular Screenings
Regular colon cancer screenings are paramount, especially for those with a family history of the disease. The rationale is simple: colon cancer is often asymptomatic in its early stages. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may have progressed to a more advanced stage, significantly lowering the chances of a full recovery.
The key takeaway is that regular screenings can detect pre-cancerous growths called polyps, which can be removed before they turn into cancer. Additionally, screening can identify cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. The prospect of early detection leading to a potentially curative treatment should be enough to encourage anyone to schedule a screening.
Types of Screening Tests
There are several types of screening tests for colon cancer, each with its own level of invasiveness and preparation required. The gold standard for detection is the colonoscopy, a procedure in which a doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the colon. Other options include fecal occult blood tests (FOBT), fecal immunochemical tests (FIT), and sigmoidoscopies, which examine the lower part of the colon. While colonoscopy is in-depth and involves bowel preparation and sedation, tests like FOBT require no dietary or medication changes and are completed at home.
Understanding these tests and their differences can help you choose the best option for you in consultation with your healthcare provider. Remember, the most important test is the one that gets done.
What to Expect During a Colonoscopy
Fear of the unknown is a common reason why people avoid colonoscopies. To alleviate this, it's essential to understand the procedure. Typically, patients will be required to fast for several hours before the exam and follow a prescribed bowel preparation routine. The colonoscopy is not usually painful due to sedation, and the procedure typically lasts about an hour.
After the test, you may experience some bloating or gas pains. However, it's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your colorectal health status. If a polyp is found during your colonoscopy, your doctor will likely remove it right away – a preventative step that can help you avoid colon cancer altogether.
Contact a screening provider like Mid-State Gastroenterology Specialist P.C. for more info.
Share8 February 2024
