Reasons for Screening
SCREENING IS THE KEY TO PREVENTION
Regular screenings for colon cancer can prolong your life.
Most colorectal cancers begin as non-cancerous polyps, which are clumps of fast growing cells. These polyps can eventually become cancerous, but if they are detected early enough, they can be removed before they advance to that stage. Regular screening colonoscopies can help prevent cancer; even if cancer is already present, early detection can increase your chances of a full recovery.
The Canadian Association of Gastroenterology and the American Cancer Society recommend a colonoscopy every 10 years or a sigmoidoscopy every 5 years for individuals at average risk, starting at age 50. Alternatively, a stool test can be run every 2 years. However, the ability of a stool test to identify polyps, or even cancer, is significantly lower than that of a colonoscopy. Talk to your family doctor about the screening option that is right for you. If you should choose to have a colonoscopy, we would be privileged to provide your endoscopic care.