Proper screening is the best way to prevent colorectal cancer

A Q&A with Zachary Torgersen, MD, a colorectal surgeon with Methodist Physicians Clinic

Not including skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States. Unfortunately, the rates of colorectal cancer are rising dramatically in younger adults, which has prompted a change in screening recommendations. Patients with average risk were once advised to begin screening at age 50. The recommended age is now 45. Despite this adjustment, we continue to see younger adults with colorectal cancer.   

Since March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, now’s the perfect time to consider when and how you should screen for this preventable and curable disease.

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Unfortunately, colorectal cancer is often asymptomatic in its early stages. That’s why screening is so important. Symptoms that can occur include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain and weight loss. It’s important to know that symptoms often don’t show up until the cancer is at an advanced stage, which is why preventive measures and screening are so important.

How can I prevent colorectal cancer?

The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is with screening. Many people don’t know that a colonoscopy is diagnostic and therapeutic. A colonoscopy can identify polyps – abnormal tissue growths in the colon – and remove them before they become cancer. Screening recommendations differ based on your individual risk factors. It’s important to discuss your risk with your primary care provider.

Additionally, healthy lifestyle choices such as adding more fiber into your daily routine, exercising regularly and avoiding tobacco can lower your risk. 

Are there any common misconceptions people have about the screening process?

Yes! Many patients believe the process of completing a colonoscopy is too demanding or dangerous. Although the bowel preparation is inconvenient, it’s well worth it because a colonoscopy allows us to appropriately identify a patient's risk for a very common type of cancer and inform them on when they need another exam. All procedures have risks, but a colonoscopy is extremely safe and effective.  

What kinds of self-screening methods are out there?

There are a variety of at-home tests that are gaining popularity. If you’re considering an at-home screening test, there are a few important factors you need to discuss with your provider, including:

• Whether you’re a candidate for an at-home test or need a colonoscopy
• How that particular at-home test compares with a colonoscopy in effectiveness
• How often you’ll need to repeat the test in the future

In general, a positive at-home test result will lead to a recommendation to proceed with a colonoscopy.  

How does family history play into how frequently/early you should get screened?

Family history is a major risk factor for colorectal cancer. Typically, patients with family histories of the disease will need to undergo colonoscopies at more frequent intervals and potentially start younger than patients without family histories of the disease.  

What should patients expect when visiting your office for the first time?

Patients can anticipate a stress-free, routine experience with an expert team. Our practice is limited to colon and rectal surgery, so you can expect all your questions to be answered by specialists who take care of patients in your same situation all day, every day.   

 

While colorectal cancer is common, it’s important to know that it’s preventable with proper screening and healthy lifestyle choices. Meeting with your primary care provider will help you determine when and how you should get screened.

Dr. Zachary Torgersen is a board-certified colorectal surgeon with Methodist Physicians Clinic who enjoys building long-term relationships with his patients. He has special interests in inflammatory bowel disease and familial cancers. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Torgersen or another Methodist provider, visit bestcare.org/providers.