Housecall with Dr. David Doman invites Dr. Raena Olsen a Gastroenterologist and a fellow colleague to share why a Colonoscopy screening is important to your health. 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will get colon cancer. Colon cancer is the 3rd most common cancer in men and women and the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths. African Americans are the highest group effected by colon cancer. It is occurring in younger people now, so people 45 and older need to get a Colonoscopy screening. The Affordable Care Act requires insurance to cover Colonoscopy screenings as preventative care, so everyone will be able to stay healthy when they get a Colonoscopy.
There is 90% Survival with Early Detection!
Risk Factors
Older age
Genetics-if a 1st degree relative had colon cancer you are 2x/3x higher at risk to getting it too.
Smoking
Alcohol
Obesity
Screening Options
Colonoscopy-endoscopic examination of the large intestine where a camera used to detect polyps and signs of colon cancer.
Virtual Colonoscopy– a CT scan that is a 10 minute anal test. If you have polyps you’ll need to get a colonoscopy.
Colaguard Test– a kit is sent to your home and you send a stool sample back. It has 8% false positive. Convenient if you are not a candidate for colonoscopy.
FIT Fluorescent Test-Tests for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. FIT only detects human blood from the lower intestines.
Flexible Partial Colonoscopy/Sigmoidoscopy-Looks only at the lower third of the colon.
Barium Test– Don’t recommend
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