SEATTLE — Colonoscopies save lives by detecting colorectal cancers early. Colorectal cancer is actually increasing in younger populations, so a first colonoscopy screening is now recommended at age 45, rather than 50.
“For the first screening, we’re trying to detect colorectal cancers early, so precancerous polyps or colon cancers before they’ve spread to other locations,” said Dr. Lindsay Sceats, colorectal surgeon at Providence Swedish.
Screening may be needed earlier than 45 if patients have a family history or experience red flag symptoms. These include changes to bowel habits that aren’t the norm for the patient, like diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, new bleeding with bowel movements, unintentional weight loss and/or thin, ribbon-like stool.
While many symptoms of colon and rectal cancers overlap, people with rectal cancer may experience an increased urgency to go to the bathroom and may feel they haven’t emptied their bowels completely.
“Many people think colon cancer and rectal cancer are one in the same, but to me as a colorectal surgeon, they’re actually very different because they have different treatment algorithms,” Dr. Sceats said.
Treatment for both can vary based on the stage of the cancer when diagnosed. Colon cancer is often treated with surgery and chemotherapy, depending on the stage. Rectal cancer treatment often includes radiation, and chemo and radiation may be used before any surgery.
“In about 25% of cases, people may avoid surgery at all, and that’s something called the watch and wait pathway,” Dr. Sceats said.
While many people may not look forward to their colonoscopy, they’re an important screening tool.
“The worst part of it is definitely the bowel prep,” Dr. Sceats said. “I tell people it’s like a juice cleanse, so nothing to worry about. During the actual colonoscopy, it’s just the best nap you’ll take.”
Genetics can factor into your risk for colorectal cancer, and it can also be attributed to diet. Diets high in processed foods and preserved meats may increase your risk of colon cancer.
Swedish has established a long tradition of caring for patients with colorectal issues and is one of the only groups in the Pacific Northwest that continues training colorectal surgeons. To learn more about colorectal cancer and treatments, visit the Swedish website.
Sponsored by Providence Swedish
Segment Producer Suzie Wiley. Watch New Day Northwest at 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.