If you are between the ages of 45 and 75 years old, it may be time for a colorectal cancer screening. Even if you are younger but have a family history of colorectal cancer or suffer from related conditions, you may need to speak with your doctor about a need for early testing. The surgeons at Suburban Surgical Associates/Suburban Metabolic Institute in Berwyn, LaGrange, and Elmhurst, IL, can discuss possible screening options if you and your gastroenterologist or primary care doctor determine that you are high risk.
What types of screenings are done for colorectal cancer?
When the surgeons at Suburban Surgical Associates/Suburban Metabolic Institute are screening for cancer, they are looking for a disease that may not cause you any symptoms. Their screenings can identify precancerous polyps and then remove them before they become cancerous. Finding colorectal cancer earlier puts you in the best position for treatment.
One of the screenings done is called a flexible sigmoidoscopy. The test is usually performed after less invasive testing is deemed positive, like stool studies or a CT colonography. During a sigmoidoscopy, the surgeon inserts a lighted tube into your rectum to identify any possible polyps or cancer.
Another screening test is like the flexible sigmoidoscopy, and that is a colonoscopy. With this particular procedure, the doctor uses a longer-lighted tube to check the entire colon for polyps or other signs of cancer. Again, the surgeons can perform the screening test at their facilities in Berwyn, LaGrange, and Elmhurst, IL.
How often should you be screened for cancer?
The U.S. Preventative Task Force recommends that any person between the ages of 45 to 75 participate in a colorectal cancer screening. Anyone older than 75 should consult with their physician on what is best in terms of screening. Younger individuals are at an increased risk for colon cancer if someone in their family has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
Other signs that you may be at high risk for colorectal cancer include:
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Cigarette smoking
- Overweight
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Poor diet
If you receive a negative screening test, please remember to return for regular screenings. In addition, it is recommended to have a flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 to 10 years and a colonoscopy every ten years.
How do I know which colorectal cancer screening test is best for me?
The surgeons at Suburban Surgical Associates/Suburban Metabolic Institute in Berwyn, LaGrange, and Elmhurst, IL, can work with your primary care doctor or gastroenterologist to determine which test is best for you.
It usually depends on:
- Personal preferences
- Resources available for testing and follow-up
- Your medical condition
The physicians at Suburban Surgical Associates/Suburban Metabolic Institute have an office located in Berwyn, LaGrange, and Elmhurst, IL, and they are ready to discuss your screening needs. At your consult appointment, they will review what screening test is recommended, what is involved with the test, review any risks involved, and discuss your care plan. Call and make your consultation appointment today at (708) 484-0621 for any of their office locations.