But , colonoscopies are generally the most effective tests since the doctor can biopsy or remove polyps at the same time .
An easy way to remember the warning signs of colon cancer is to know your ABCP ’ s , which are :
A - Anemia – Symptoms include weakness , pale skin , and low blood count .
B - Blood in stool
C - Change in bowel habits -- Any changes that last longer than 1-2 months and are unusual .
P - Pain in abdomen -- Any unexplained pain in abdomen or rectum that has been there for 1-2 months and seems to be getting worse with time .
Who should get screened and what type of screening is usually used ?
If there is no family history , then age 50 is recommended . However , if you have a family history of colon cancer , you may need to get screen before age 50 . In addition , the American College of Gastroenterology recommends age 45 if you are African American .
Is a colonoscopy still the most recommended screening test ?
A colonoscopy is generally the recommended screening tool . This procedure has come a long way from past treatments . There are other tests that can be completed by your primary care physician and are non-invasive and cost effective , such as :
• Barium enema
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy
• Occult blood and stool DNA samples
If colon cancer is found early , what ’ s the prognosis ?
Generally , the earlier you find colon cancer , the better longterm results you will have . The five-year relative survival rate for people with stage I colon cancer is about 92 % versus stage IV which may be about 11 %. But there are treatment options for later-stage cancer that can be effective .
What are common treatments for colon cancer ?
Generally surgery , radiation and / or chemotherapy may be used for colon cancer . Treatment is largely based on the stage of the cancer and other factors related to the individual patient . That ’ s why a personalized , treatment plan is best .
What kind of lifestyle changes can people make to possibly prevent colon cancer ?
Obesity is a risk factor , so keeping a healthy weight through diet and exercise is extremely important . Increase fresh fruit and vegetable intake daily . Instead of processed meat and red meat , eat lean proteins such as turkey , chicken and fish . Stop smoking !
As a gastroenterologist and dedicated researcher , Dr . Hendrickson has published studies in several renowned medical journals and has served as an investigator for many clinical trials to advance the treatment of emphysema , HIV , Crohn ’ s disease and others conditions .
Scott Hendrickson , DO , FACOI
DENTON COUNTY Living Well Magazine | MARCH / APRIL 2017
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