A rise in early-onset colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients younger than 50 prompted leading health organizations to recommend CRC screening starting at age 45 for all average-risk individuals.

A study published in “Gastroenterology” supports the lowered CRC screening age. The study was conducted by AMSURG and researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

“We have known for many years that rates of colorectal cancer are rising in individuals younger than 50, prompting several medical organizations to recommend lowering the screening age from 50 to 45. What has been missing until now is confirmatory data of the prevalence of precancerous polyps in younger individuals,” said lead author Steven H. Itzkowitz, MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF, Professor of Medicine (Gastroenterology), Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, in Medical Xpress. “Our study provides an important piece of the puzzle and supports the recommendation changing the screening age to 45.”

Study Finds ‘45 is the New 50’

According to statistics, the number of colorectal cases has been increasing since the mid-1990s in adults ages 40-54. These cases are often misdiagnosed or diagnosed later in the course of the disease — a younger individual’s CRC risk factors and symptoms can be easily overlooked.

In this first large-scale study to look at precancerous polyps in this age group, researchers analyzed data collected between Jan. 1, 2014, and Feb. 5, 2021. The study focused on approximately 131,000 patients aged 40-49 from 123 AMSURG (a division of Envision Healthcare) ambulatory endoscopy centers across 29 states that report their results to the GI Quality Improvement Consortium (GIQuIC) Registry.

Several factors were associated with higher odds of finding advanced premalignant lesions (APLs) and colorectal cancer, including age, family history of CRC, sex (male), race (white) and examinations performed for evaluation of rectal bleeding or screening.

In this study, entitled “Prevalence and Predictors of Young-Onset Colorectal Neoplasia: Insights from a Nationally Representative Colonoscopy Registry,” results were reported among patients aged 45-49. Some of the study’s findings regarding this age group are listed below:

• 32 percent had neoplasia (precancerous or cancerous lesions considered precursors of colorectal cancer)
• Nearly 8 percent had APLs
• 0.58 percent had CRC
• Prevalence of neoplasia and APLs were almost as high as those of 50-54 year olds, and the rates of CRC were even higher.

Additionally, among 40-44 year olds, rates of APLs were almost as high as for those aged 45-49, and colorectal cancer rates were comparably high, according to the study.

Dr. Itzkowitz told Healio that the data confirmed that “45 is now the new 50” for CRC.

“Colon cancer used to be considered a disease of old age and that is no longer true,” Dr. Itzkowitz told Healio. “Our data also suggest that clinically important lesions occur about five years earlier in individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer compared to those without a family history. That is why it is very important to take a good family history.”

Study co-author, Jay Popp, MD, Medical Director for AMSURG, told Medical Xpress that “the team’s findings reiterate the importance of colorectal cancer awareness — both among patients and clinicians.”

“Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but it is one of the most preventable cancers,” Dr. Popp said. “The more patients know about their bodies and risk for colorectal cancer and the more clinicians can do to help patients receive routine and timely screenings, the more lives we can save. Everyone can play a role in helping a loved one or neighbor prevent colorectal cancer.”

New Law Changes Follow-up Screening Cost

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month. According to the ACS, about 60 percent of all colon cancer fatalities in the United States could be prevented if every man and woman 45 years or older would choose to be screened for colon cancer.

If you have a positive stool-based test, a follow-up colonoscopy is critical. In fact, if you delay a colonoscopy for nine months or more after a positive stool-based test, you are much more likely to have an advanced cancer.

In the past, most patients were required to pay the deductible for a follow-up colonoscopy to evaluate a positive stool-based test. Stool-based tests include the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and stool-DNA test (Cologuard). A new law changes the requirement for patients to share in the cost. Health insurance plans within the Affordable Care Act will be required to provide no-cost coverage of this follow-up procedure. This coverage is for plan or policy years beginning on or after May 31, 2022.

To avoid confusion, contact your healthcare provider first and then schedule an appointment.

Colonoscopy Is Gold Standard for CRC Screening

If you are 45 or older, get screened for colorectal cancer.

In 2020, about 12 percent of all cases of CRC occurred in individuals under 50, according to the American Cancer Society. Patients diagnosed prior to age 50 were more likely to have advanced disease at diagnosis.

When colorectal cancer is found at an early stage before it has spread, the five-year survival rate is about 90 percent.

Many screening methods are available, but colonoscopy is the gold standard procedure because it allows your doctor to see the entire length of the colon to examine for polyps, lesions and abnormalities. A quality colonoscopy is the only screening that can both detect and prevent colon cancer.

Call Your Gastroenterologist to Schedule a Colonoscopy

Our fellowship-trained gastroenterologists perform colonoscopy screenings at ambulatory surgery centers around the country. Click here to request an appointment at our surgery center.

Men often prioritize various aspects of their lives like career, family, and hobbies, but tend to overlook a crucial component: Their health (particularly when it comes to colon health). While conversations about colon health may seem uncomfortable or taboo, it is essential for men to be aware of the importance of regular colon health screenings – especially having a colonoscopy by age 45 or sooner if they have risk factors.

Understanding Colon Health

The colon (also referred to as the large intestine) plays a significant role in the digestive process by absorbing water and nutrients, while also eliminating waste products from the body. It regulates everything going through your body, sending signals everywhere based on how the gut itself is feeling and what nutrients it’s taking in and filtering.

That’s why it’s vital to take care of your gut – and a colonoscopy is the best way to see what’s really going on in your gut…and prevent colon cancer.

Why Men Need a Colonoscopy

• Early Detection – and PREVENTION – of Colon Cancer
  • Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men, and a colonoscopy allows your gastrointestinal doctor to examine the colon lining, identify precancerous growths (polyps), and remove them before they become cancerous. Regular screenings significantly reduce the risk of developing advanced-stage colon (or colorectal) cancer, increasing the chances of successful treatment and improved outcomes.
• Detection of Other Colon Conditions
  • Colonoscopies enable the diagnosis of other colon-related conditions, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Early diagnosis enables timely intervention and management of these conditions, improving the quality of life for men and minimizing potential complications.
• Personalized Screening Recommendations
  • Your first colonoscopy sets the stage for taking care of your gut health for years to come. Based on the findings of an initial colonoscopy, your team of doctors will determine the appropriate screening intervals for subsequent examinations by factoring in your family history, personal health history, and the presence of any abnormalities. Regular colonoscopies help create a tailored screening plan, ensuring you receive appropriate follow-up care specific to your individual needs.
• Reduction of Colon Cancer-related Deaths
  • Colon cancer is PREVENTABLE! However, many men (and women) put off their routine colonoscopies and then precancerous polyps can’t be located and removed at their earliest stages, before they grow into cancerous polyps.

Schedule your Colonoscopy Today!

Break the stigma surrounding colon health: Encourage men everywhere to prioritize colonoscopies and get a colonoscopy by age 45 (or sooner, with risk factors). Contact Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan today to schedule your appointment.

Raleigh, NC – The Colon Cancer Coalition’s annual event, “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh,” rallied over 500 participants and raised an impressive $43,000 (and counting!) in support of colorectal cancer research and prevention. The event, held at WakeMed, showcased the dedication and generosity of Raleigh Endoscopy Centers and other sponsors, reinforcing the collective commitment to fighting this prevalent disease.

Under the banner of the Colon Cancer Coalition, the community came together to combat colorectal cancer and create a lasting impact. With the participation of enthusiastic individuals and the unwavering support of sponsors, “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh” proved to be a remarkable success. Raleigh Endoscopy Centers, a vital sponsor of the event, demonstrated their dedication to the cause and highlighted the importance of screenings in the fight against colorectal cancer.

A Call for Action: Screening at 45

Colorectal cancer ranks as the second most leading cause of death among both men and women in the U.S. Alarming statistics reveal that approximately 150,000 Americans receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis annually, while approximately 53,000 lose their lives to this disease. Recognizing the urgency to address this issue, Raleigh Endoscopy Centers emphasized the significance of scheduling a cancer screening appointment starting at the age of 45. Timely screenings enable early detection and intervention, significantly improving treatment outcomes.

Racing to Make a Difference

Amid the vibrant atmosphere at WakeMed, participants reveled in the spirit of competition while supporting a noble cause. Noteworthy race results included John Smith claiming first place in the 5K race and Sarah Adams emerging victorious in the 10K race. Their achievements symbolize the resilience and determination displayed by all participants as they raced to make a difference in the fight against colorectal cancer.

The success of “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh” would not have been possible without the generous support of Raleigh Endoscopy Centers and other sponsors. The Colon Cancer Coalition expressed their heartfelt appreciation to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers who contributed to the event’s success. In their quest to improve future events, organizers welcomed feedback from attendees, ensuring an even more impactful gathering in the years to come. They look forward to future collaborations with Raleigh Endoscopy Centers and the community to raise awareness and funds for colorectal cancer research and prevention.

Schedule Your Colonoscopy Today!

It’s time to prioritize your health and take a stand against colorectal cancer. If you’re 45 or older, scheduling your colonoscopy is a crucial step in early detection and prevention. The success of “Get Your Rear in Gear – Raleigh,” demonstrated the power of community in the fight against this deadly disease.

By scheduling your colonoscopy today, you not only protect your own well-being but also contribute to a greater cause. Early detection saves lives, and your action can have a significant impact. Join us in the ongoing battle against colorectal cancer, because together, we can make a lasting difference. Don’t wait any longer—take charge of your health and schedule your colonoscopy now. Your appointment can be the turning point in the fight against this prevalent disease, offering hope and saving lives.

Louisville Endoscopy Center, a renowned provider of exceptional patient care, has integrated revolutionary AI technology that improves colon cancer screening efficiencies. This cutting-edge system underscores the center’s commitment to improving health outcomes and delivering superior care to patients.

By leveraging advanced AI technology, the endoscopy center enhances the precision and effectiveness of colonoscopies. The intelligent system collaborates with medical professionals, providing an additional layer of analysis during the procedure. It diligently analyzes real-time video feeds from the endoscope, assisting physicians in identifying potential abnormalities like polyps that can lead to colon cancer.

One of the significant benefits of this breakthrough AI technology is its ability to facilitate early detection of colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps. Detecting polyps at their nascent stages empowers patients to receive timely interventions, leading to more successful treatment outcomes and improved long-term survival rates. Additionally, the AI-assisted approach allows for the removal of precancerous polyps during the same procedure, reducing the risk of cancer development and minimizing the need for subsequent invasive interventions.

How Patients Benefit from AI

The integration of AI technology into colon cancer screenings at the endoscopy center offers several advantages to patients. By enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the procedure, the technology reduces examination time, minimizing patient discomfort and promoting a more comfortable experience. Furthermore, the AI system acts as a second set of eyes, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of the colon, which contributes to improved detection rates and more effective preventive measures.

Alongside the integration of AI technology, the endoscopy center is dedicated to delivering compassionate care and exceptional support to patients throughout the screening process. The experienced staff strives to create a supportive environment, addressing patient concerns, and ensuring a positive experience at every step.

Through the utilization of this groundbreaking AI technology, the endoscopy center establishes itself as a leader in revolutionizing colon cancer screenings. By embracing innovative approaches and advancements in medical technology, the center remains at the forefront of the fight against colorectal cancer, emphasizing its commitment to patient well-being and improved health outcomes.

Schedule Your Colon Cancer Screening

Individuals aged 45 and above are strongly encouraged to schedule a colon cancer screening at the endoscopy center. By taking this proactive step, patients can benefit from the precision, efficiency, and enhanced detection capabilities provided by AI technology.

Each year, Raleigh Endoscopy Centers sponsor the Cancer Coalition’s “Get Your Rear In Gear” 5K run/walk. The effort is to create more colon cancer awareness and the importance of cancer screening for those aged 45+.

If you’re interested in registering for the May 6 race, click here. But, if you can’t make it to the race, you can still support the cause with donations through our team of “Bum Runners.”

Here’s How it Works

1. Click This Link to Find Our Group’s Donation Page
2. Enter in the amount you would like to donate. Even, $1 will help!
3. You can choose if you want your donation to be shown on our group page.
4. Enter your payment info
5. Click “Donate Now”

Your donation will go toward the fight to end colon cancer, while showing support for our team.

 

 

 

 

 

You’re Invited to the 13th Annual Hugs Fundraiser honoring Ben Fritz & Gastroenterology Associates of Ocala

When: February 23, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.

Where: Bank Street Patio Bar & Grill, 120 E Fort King Street, Ocala, FL

Click here to learn more.

Congratulations to Dr. George Wandling, who was chosen as an investigator for the Ivantis Hydrus FDA clinical trial. Dr. Wandling’s selection makes North Metro Surgery Center one of only 15 sites across the United States active in this prospective, post-approval FDA study, designed to determine the ongoing safety of the device. It will soon be wrapping up its 24-month study results.

The Hydrus is a MIGS (Microinvasive Glaucoma Surgery) device implanted at the time of cataract surgery and is used to treat mild to moderate open angle glaucoma.

Dr. Wandling is a leading expert on cataract and cataract/MIGS surgery and we’re proud of his accomplishments, research, and contributions to the field of ocular surgery.

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are letting cameras get up close and personal, for a good cause.

In a new video from colon-cancer-awareness organization Lead from Behind in association with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, the two actors and soccer-club owners share their experience getting preventative colonoscopies.

To read the full story on MSN, click here.

Processed foods were created to help us out in our busy lives – because when it’s already processed, it’s generally quicker to prepare and has a longer shelf life (so we don’t have to go grocery shopping as often, in theory).

But anything that’s boxed and processed isn’t usually the healthiest choice for your gut. When foods are processed, they often take away nutrients and add excess salt and sugar and other preservatives.

Many of us have become accustomed to having processed foods as staples in our diets – but there are a few easy swaps you can start making now to adjust to a cleaner, healthier diet! (Even when you’re eating out!)

5 Easy Ways to Swap Out Processed Foods for a Healthier Gut

1.Trade white rice for brown rice

White rice is processed, therefore many of the nutrients are stripped during that process. Brown rice has more fiber (which we know is great for making you feel full and keeping your colon healthy!).

White rice also has more sugar in it – whereas brown rice contains nutrients like magnesium, niacin, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B1.

The nutrients kept in brown rice make it an energizing, healthy carb. Many diets that promote “no carbs” consider that most of the carbs many people eat are processed…but brown rice can be a great staple in your diet to fuel your body, clean your gut, and help you feel full with less food.

Plus, whole grains can help lower your colon cancer risk!

(And if you’re up for it, try trading your brown rice for even healthier options like quinoa or barley!)

2.Replace soda with carbonated water and fresh fruit (or just water!)

Nixing soda can be a hard habit to break – but if you make up your mind to do it, you can!

You still want the fizzy drink? Use carbonated soda water (without all the chemicals, sugar, and caffeine) and throw in fresh fruit. Cut up limes or lemons and have them on hand to squeeze and toss in there. Or maybe mix it up with some watermelon and cucumber for a refreshing twist!

Even replacing one can of soda with a glass of water can help start the trend. Water makes you feel full and replenishes lost fluids from your body to keep you from getting dehydrated.

Plus it doesn’t have all the sugars that your gut has to process.

3.Use real potatoes instead of instant flakes

When you’re coming home from work, it can save you a lot of time to make instant potatoes instead of cooking fresh ones. But, the real potatoes are worth it: They pack more nutrients, and can reduce inflammation in your colon.

Plus, the potatoes from the ground can help you feel more full! White potatoes are a resistant starch, full of probiotics that benefit gut health. Plus they’re high in potassium and low in sodium.

And if you’re thinking you want to stay away from carbs, fresh potatoes that are prepared in a healthy way are fresh and not processed, so they’re not as bad as you may think.

4.Instead of chips or cheesy crackers: Cheese and whole-grain crackers

Cheese has a way of filling you up and giving you nutrients to give you energy and stay full longer! When you are on the road and need a snack, it’s easy to pick up a bag of something…but fresh cheese and whole-grain crackers will work better!

Animal products like cheese contain protein and Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and calcium – all essential to a healthy diet. And having enough calcium in your diet can help to prevent colorectal cancer. 

And the whole-grain crackers, although processed, are a better choice than chips for what you’re looking for in a snack. Whole grain, or multi-grain crackers, have fiber in them to keep you feeling full longer, and to help clean out your gut.

5. Switch from boxed cereal to oatmeal

You may have heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but you’re rushed in the morning so you just grab a quick bowl of cereal (or breakfast bar) to make sure you get something to start your day. Why not try some oatmeal? Not the packaged kind, but the rolled oats kind, and add your own toppings!

When you’re choosing your oatmeal, steel-cut oats are the least processed type, full of the most original nutrients. But rolled oats (or old-fashioned oats) and quick oats are still good for your gut!

Quick oats are the most processed of the types of oats, because they go through a partial-cooking process to make them a couple minutes quicker to cook than rolled oats. Make sure if you have Celiac Disease that you talk to your doctor first.

Oats – and oatmeal – are fantastic grains packed with fiber to help you feel full longer, give you energy, and keep your gut healthy (with everything flowing smoothly).

Toss some cinnamon on your oatmeal, or some cut up strawberries and blueberries. Or maybe some peaches, or bananas and walnuts. The healthy, flavorful choices are plentiful to make your breakfast something you (and your gut) look forward to!

Get your gut checked today!

When you use these 5 Easy Ways to Swap Out Processed Foods for a Healthier Gut,

make sure to talk to your GI doctor about any changes in your diet, so you can take into consideration things like gluten and lactose that may affect your gut health.

Give Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. a call today and we can do a couple quick tests to help you determine what’s going on in your gut, have a healthier gut, and help you with any gut discomfort you may have.

 

Even if your symptoms are depression, anxiety, migraines, infertility or other non-stomach issues

It may seem like a “trendy” thing to be gluten-free, but the truth is, nearly 1 in 100 people have Celiac Disease which gluten triggers, bringing on pain and discomfort – and many don’t even know that’s the cause.

Those of us who have Celiac Disease can benefit greatly from reducing or eliminating gluten from our diets – but diagnosing and treating Celiac Disease is important not only because of treating the discomfort, but Celiac Disease can also increase your risk of coronary artery disease and small bowel cancers, along with increasing your chance to have other autoimmune diseases.

That’s why it’s vital to listen to your gut (literally) and get tested if you have symptoms.

What IS Celiac Disease?

Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disease, where your body basically attacks the small intestine when it discovers a harmful intruder: Gluten.

Gluten is a protein in wheat, rye, and barley – so it’s in a lot of foods and beverages we consume. And even small amounts of gluten can trigger the response in your intestine.

It’s a bit of a family disease, too:  1 in 10 people with it have related family members who also have Celiac Disease.

In addition, Celiac Disease can develop at any age, once you’ve consumed gluten. And it make take a while for you to notice that the symptoms may be those of Celiac Disease. If left untreated, Celiac Disease can lead to a myriad of additional health problems – ones you may not think it could be a trigger of.

A strict gluten-free diet is the only treatment for Celiac Disease, and it’s life-long.

Symptoms of Celiac Disease

The symptoms of Celiac Disease vary greatly, and as a result can be difficult to diagnose purely by symptoms – which is why a blood test is the best way to determine if your issues can be cause by Celiac Disease.

Some common symptoms include:

• • Abdominal pain
  • Bloating and gas
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches or migraines
  • Infertility
  • Iron-deficiency anemia
  • Itchy, blistery skin rash
  • Joint pain
  • Missed periods
  • Mouth ulcers and canker sores
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Weight loss

 In kids, common symptoms can include:

• • Abdominal pain, bloating, and gas
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and learning disabilities
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Damage to tooth enamel
  • Delayed puberty
  • Failure to thrive
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Iron-deficiency anemia
  • Irritability
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pale, foul-smelling stools
  • Seizures and lack of muscle coordination
  • Short stature
  • Weight loss

Diagnosis of Celiac Disease

Since there are many other symptoms of Celiac Disease that you may be seemingly unrelated – such as Vitamin deficiencies, migraines, difficulty losing weight, and others – it’s a good idea to ask your doctor to be tested for Celiac Disease when discussing your ailments…especially if you have a family member that has Celiac Disease.

Get tested now for Celiac Disease

At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Michigan, we can test you in our offices for Celiac Disease. Contact us today or schedule your appointment online.