Learn More about New Colon Cancer Screening Guidelines
According to a survey, Americans are at higher risk for colorectal cancer. For the past two decades, people were guided to have a colonoscopy at the age of 50. But the American Cancer Society (ACS) is on the verge of changing their guidelines. According to the recent guidelines, people will have a colon cancer screening at the age of 45. It’s also important to talk to your doctor initially to learn more about individual risk factors for colorectal cancer. Since it depends on so many factors, your gastroenterologist will decide and explain when you need to have a screening.
Here are some key factors to learn from the new guidelines:
● Since the colon cancer rates were on the rise for people under the age 50, the old guidelines have to be changed. This will allow people from the age of 45 to get their opportunity to have a screening. This ensures a better living which leads to a reduction in the colon cancer rate.
● According to the new guidelines, colon cancer screening is not the only option for colorectal cancer. There are other stool-based tests available such as – FIT, FOBT and Multi-target Stool DNA Test. According to new guidelines, these tests are an alternative to colonoscopy.
● If you have symptoms of colon cancer or are approaching age 45, you should immediately contact your healthcare provider. Many people develop colon cancer symptoms regardless of their age. It’s recommended to make an appointment to a gastroenterologist if you experience blood in your stool, feeling of empty bowel, discolored and narrow stools.
A proactive approach is absolutely necessary to make sure there is less risk of getting colorectal cancer. Contact your doctor to discuss your new screening guidelines. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths, but it’s preventable. Early signs of polyps can easily be removed to make sure you are safe. Contact Screen the City to get screened today.
**Disclaimer: This blog content does not intend to offer a doctor’s advice and mentions no relationship between any patient and the care provider.
