(Media release from Harbin Clinic):
Throughout the year, and especially during March for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Harbin Clinic encourages everyone 45 years of age and older to schedule a preventative screening for colorectal cancer. Bottom line: colorectal cancer is preventable.
When detected early and before cancer has spread, the colorectal cancer 5-year survival rate is 90%. Colorectal cancer screenings, including colonoscopies, are essential in early detection and prevention. A colonoscopy not only views the health of the entire colon but can biopsy and remove any suspicious, potentially pre-cancerous polyps.
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of US cancer-related deaths when men and women are combined.
In 2022, it’s expected that colorectal cancer will be the cause of death for more than 52,000 Americans. While this number is trending downward due to an increase in routine screenings and early detection, the rate of colorectal cancer diagnoses in individuals younger than 50 years of age continues to increase. The American Cancer Society and US Preventative Services Task Force changed the recommended preventative screening age from 50 to 45 in 2021.
“We encourage everyone age 45 and over to talk to their primary care physician about scheduling a colonoscopy,” says Harbin Clinic Gastroenterologist Dr. Roman Galysh. “It’s vital to get screened, because the earlier we can detect the cancer, the better chance you have of beating it.”
Know Your Risk & Keep It Top of Mind
Understanding lifestyle and family-related risk factors for colorectal cancer can help determine when people should inquire about regular screenings and if that recommendation is before age 45. The links between diet, weight, exercise, and colorectal cancer risk are some of the strongest for any type of cancer. Additionally, family history, age and personal health history play a significant role in an individual’s risk.
Bottom Line Prevention
The expert physicians at Harbin Clinic Gastroenterology Endoscopy and GI Lab use the most innovative and cutting-edge screening technologies and methods for detecting colorectal cancer, including a colonoscopy.
“Colon cancer is preventable by identifying and removing precancerous polyps that are detected with a screening colonoscopy,” says Dr. Galysh. “Patients typically have monitored anesthesia care during the colonoscopy. The patient will be asleep which allows them to have a comfortable experience during the procedure.”
Get to the bottom of understanding the health of your colon and any potential risks by speaking with your primary care physician. For more information, visit www.harbinclinic.com.
Survival Rates for Colorectal Cancer, American Cancer Society, 2022
Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer, American Cancer Society, 2022
About Colorectal Cancer, Fight Colorectal Cancer, 2022