The Most Reliable Colon Cancer Tests
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States of America. However, among all cancers, it is easily detectable and preventable. It almost always starts with a polyp, a growth in the walls of the colon, and most colon cancer tests can find polyps before they can even develop into cancer.
Early removal of these polyps, which cause around ninety percent of all colon cancers, can indeed prevent cancer. Even if the polyp has already started to develop into a cancer, colon cancer tests can find these lesions early, increasing survival rates significantly.
Keep in mind that colon cancer may not show any symptoms. This is why regular colon cancer tests are a must for anyone above 50, and people who are considered at risk. In case there are symptoms, here are some of the things you have to watch out for: red or blackish blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, narrow, pencil-thin stools, unexplained weight loss, and constant fatigue.
A list of the most reliable colon cancer tests follows. Consult your doctor for the test that is right for you.
- Double contrast barium enema – This is one of the older colon cancer tests. Your colon is filled with barium sulfate and x-rays are then taken while you hold the liquid inside you. This produces a two-dimensional view of your colon which can show any abnormalities. This test should be done every five years.
- Colonoscopy – Among the colon cancer tests, colonoscopy is the most recommended because it also removes polyps. In this procedure, a flexible tube with a camera, called a colonoscope, is inserted into your anus. The camera captures images on a video monitor as it travels all the way to the end of your colon. The day before your colonoscopy, you should drink only clear liquids. You may also be asked to take special laxatives by mouth to clean all stool out of the colon. This should be done every ten years.
- Sigmoidoscopy – A sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy, but only covers the lower part of your colon. A small camera is also attached to a flexible tube, called a sigmoidoscope. For this test, a clear liquid diet, a laxative, and a home enema are also required before the procedure. This should be done once every five years.
- Fecal occult blood test – This test detects unnoticeable blood in your stool that could be from a rectal or colon tumor. Research has shown that fecal occult blood testing reduces colon cancer deaths by up to 33 percent, but it should also be noted that not all tumors and polyps bleed. This should be done at least once a year.
- Virtual colonoscopy – This is one of the modern colon cancer tests. It is “virtual” in that it uses a computer program to generate a 3D picture of your colon from x-ray images. This can also check for polyps, cancer, and other abnormalities.
Aside from these colon cancer tests, you can also reduce your chances of getting colon cancer by making simple lifestyle changes:
- Find out about your family’s cancer history so you can be aware of your risk level.
- Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes.
- Eat five or more servings of vegetables and fruits daily. Fiber helps prevent colon cancer.
- Avoid tobacco and drink alcohol in moderation, if you must drink.
- Maintain your ideal weight.
- Get regular checkups with your doctor, including colon cancer tests.