When HCA Florida Citrus Hospital pharmacist was diagnosed with stage 2a colon cancer, she found herself in a whirlwind of medical appointments and confusion. It was Dr. Trupti Shinde who stepped in, ordered the life-saving colonoscopy, and later supported the creation of a community mission to educate others. Discover how this diagnosis led to the formation of the Citrus Colorectal Cancer Foundation, and how Dr. Shinde’s compassion and expertise played a crucial role in this inspiring story. Your click could lead to better awareness and potentially save lives.
Endo Surgi Center Implements AI-Powered Solution for Colon Cancer Screening
Endo Surgi 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.
Fueling Your Body: How Do You Know if Your Colon is Healthy?
Imagine your gut as the gas tank that fuels your body, and your colon plays a crucial role in making sure everything runs smoothly – keeping those fuel lines clean. How do you know when it’s healthy, or when you may need a tune-up?
Visiting your gastrointestinal doctor regularly and going in anytime you have changes in your digestive system (because you have a gastrointestinal doctor on your list, right?) helps keep an eye on things, but here are some tips to help in the meantime:
1. Regularity is Key
Just like a well-oiled engine, a healthy colon keeps things moving regularly. If you’re experiencing normal bowel movements at least once a day (though some people might be fine with slightly less), chances are your colon is happy. On the flip side, irregular bowel habits, constipation, or diarrhea might be signs of an unhappy colon that needs a tune-up.
You diet can help your gut feel (and move) better – and adding fiber is a surefire way to get things more regular. You could take fiber supplements, but a tastier option is to incorporate whole grains whenever you can for white flour (in breads, pastas, oats, and rice) or add nuts, apples and strawberries into your snacks or meals.
And it only takes some simple changes to your diet to help keep it cleaner. With these 5 Easy Ways to Swap Out Processed Foods for a Healthier Gut, you’ll notice a difference in how you feel and how your body is running on the fuel it’s being given.
And the biggest aid? Water. Add fruit to it, or drink it by itself to cleanse your digestive tract.
2. No More Bloat
A bloated belly is like running on low-quality fuel: It slows you down and feels awful. You know that feeling you get when you eat certain foods (like ultra-processed foods, which are bad for your gut and can potentially increase your risk of colon cancer).
A healthy colon keeps gas and bloating in check, so if you’re not feeling like a human balloon after meals, your colon is probably doing its job. If, however, you have bloat after eating often, it’s probably time for a tune-up.
3. The Cleaner, the Better
A colonoscopy is vital to maintaining your colon health.
Once you have hit a certain mileage (45 years old) – or if you have risk factors or family history of colon cancer – it’s time for a scheduled cleaning: A colonoscopy. Not only will it clean things out, but it can detect and remove any suspicious growths or polyps before they turn into something more serious.
A colonoscopy prevents colon cancer. And even if you may not want to think about it, you should know these colon cancer facts to save your life.
4. Listen to Your Gut (and Your Body)
When your car starts making a funny noise, you notice and start paying attention, taking it in if it persists. The same goes for your gut. If you’re experiencing unexplained changes in your bowel habits, persistent abdominal pain, or unintentional weight loss, your gut might be sending distress signals. Don’t ignore these warning signs – think of it as your “check engine” light coming on.
Visit your gastrointestinal doctor so we can take a look and diagnose the issue (and fix it so your body is running more efficiently).
5. A Balanced Diet is Fuel Efficiency
To keep your gas tank happy, you need good quality fuel. The same applies to your colon: A balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, veggies, and whole grains can do wonders for your gut health. Fiber acts like a gentle scrubber, cleaning out your colon and preventing constipation.
Get a Gut Tune-Up
Contact Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Mich. for all your gut needs: From diagnosing pain in your abdomen, bowel irregularities and an uncomfortable stomach, to treating conditions like GERD, IBD, Celiac Disease and more, our knowledgeable and caring doctors can get your body running (and feeling) better. And when it’s time for a colonoscopy, you can have it done here in our surgical center instead of a hospital (saving you time, energy, and money).
Bacteria Differ in Stages of Colon Cancer Diagnosis
Gut microbiota is the largest microbiome in the body, with at least 1,000 types of bacteria and 100 trillion microbes. Gut bacteria maintain intestinal stability and can influence susceptibility to disease. No one’s microbiota is the same as another person’s. The composition can change over time, especially in the early stages of certain diseases.
A recent study found that the microbiome of colon tumors varies depending on whether the patient was diagnosed with early-onset (younger than 50) or late-onset disease.
Study finds difference in colon tumor microbiomes.
According to new research from Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, the microbiome of patients with colon cancer can differ greatly.
The research team found the type and amount of viruses, fungi and bacteria in the colon tumors of patients differed notably depending on whether the patients were diagnosed with early-onset colon cancer compared to late-onset colon cancer.
Increase in early-onset colon cancer
Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, with approximately two million new cases per year worldwide. Colon cancer rates have been decreasing in adults older than 55, partly due to increased screening for the disease. However, colon cancer incidence continues to rise in young adults. In the last 10 years, the number of young adults with colon cancer has doubled, and the incidence rate has increased from 11 percent in 1995 to 20 percent in 2020.
Gut microbiota and colon tumors
Only about 10-15 percent of colon cancers are hereditary, so most colon cancers develop due to environmental factors. In recent years, scientists have placed more importance on the gut microbiome as a factor contributing to the development of colon cancer. Microbes can cause inflammation in tissues, which can mutate DNA cells in the colon lining. Scientists also know a certain type of bacteria called Fusobacterium nucleatum (F. nuc) can suppress the immune response in the colon and make it more prone to cancer.
The study examined 917 types of fungi and bacteria in the colon tumors. F. nuc was one of the most common types of bacteria, and it appeared in about 30 percent of both early- and late-onset colon tumors. The researchers were also able to categorize specific bacteria and fungi that were more common in early-onset tumors while others were more common in late-onset tumors.
“Younger people with colorectal cancer have more biologically aggressive cancers, and whatever survival benefit they have by being younger is outweighed by the more aggressive tumor biology. We also know that, for the most part, genetics doesn’t explain the recent rise in young-onset disease,” said Benjamin Adam Weinberg, MD. “But we have trillions of bacteria residing in our body, including in our gut, some of which are implicated in the development of colorectal cancer; hence, we think the microbiome may be an important factor in the development of the disease, as it is involved in the interplay between a person’s genetics, environment, diet and immune system.”
Dr. Weinberg is an associate professor of medicine at Georgetown Lombardi. He hopes the new study may provide insight into why young-onset colon cancer rates continue to increase. With the current findings and plans to continue the research, the team wants to continue to explore how the microbiome and other factors influence colon cancer development. Analyzing the gut microbiota could provide critical information on how to target this microbiome for more sophisticated treatments.
Schedule a colonoscopy for digestive health.
When was the last time you had a colonoscopy? The American Cancer Society recommends that all adults at average risk for colon cancer begin screening at age 45, but certain risk factors may require earlier screening. Talk to your doctor about getting screened at appropriate times.
Visit Your Orthopedist and Prevent Overuse Injuries
Staying physically active is essential to maintain a healthy weight and prevent chronic conditions; however, over-exercising can lead to injury and mobility loss.
What is an overuse injury?
Exercise is one of the healthiest choices you can make. People of all ages need regular physical activity for overall health and disease prevention, but it is important to exercise safely.
Over-exercising and poor form can cause tenderness and pain. An overuse injury occurs when bones, muscles, ligaments or tendons are continually stressed and do not have time to rest. Although there are many types of overuse injuries, some are quite common.
Runner’s knee
Runner’s knee develops when muscle tightness pulls the kneecap in the wrong direction and causes friction between the kneecap and the bone behind it. If you do not stretch your hamstrings, hip flexors or IT band, you could be at risk for runner’s knee. Some symptoms of runner’s knee include dull pain and weakness in the kneecap.
You can prevent runner’s knee by proper stretching before and after activities like running and biking. Strengthening the quadriceps can also keep the knee in alignment and prevent injury.
ITBS
Iliotibial band syndrome, or ITBS, is one of the most common overuse injuries of the leg. The iliotibial band is a tendon that goes from the hip to just below the knee. ITBS can take a long time to heal, often one to two months.
You can prevent ITBS by stretching the IT band before and after exercise and wearing athletic shoes with good support.
Plantar fasciitis
The plantar fascia joins the toes to the heel bone and provides support to the foot arch. Similar to shin splints, plantar fasciitis develops from tight calf muscles. Weakness in the knees, hips or ankles can also cause plantar fasciitis, as well as limited mobility of the big toe. This condition can cause inflammation and pain in the heel area. The best way to prevent this condition is to wear shoes that allow you to fully extend your big toe at the joint.
Symptoms of overuse injuries
Anyone can develop an overuse injury, but senior adults are affected the most. As we age, tendons and ligaments lose elasticity and joints become less lubricated. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should call an orthopedist:
- Pain during or after exercise
- Shooting pain, burning or aching
- Weakness in the limbs
- Difficulty sleeping because of pain
- Pain with daily activities like cooking, climbing stairs or doing yard work
Visit an orthopedist to treat overuse injuries.
Don’t wait for your pain to subside before calling to make an appointment. Your doctor can advise you on whether your injury is caused by overuse or improper exercise techniques. You may be able to make modifications to your daily activities to bring healing and restore full mobility.
Sometimes it is necessary to have an orthopedic procedure to get relief from your symptoms. If you need to schedule surgery, consider an ambulatory surgery center (ASC). ASCs are a wise option because they provide high-quality patient care in a comfortable setting at a reduced cost. Ask your orthopedist about scheduling your orthopedic procedure.
Play Sports? Eat Fruits, Veggies to Improve Visual Range
“Good nutrition is essential in keeping current and future generations of Americans healthy across the lifespan,” according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Studies have shown plant pigments found in many common foods positively impact eye health and functional vision.
Lead author Jacob Harth said new research examines the ability of lutein and zeaxanthin to improve how well a person can see a target clearly over distance.
“A lot of the research into macular lutein and zeaxanthin has focused on health benefits, but from a functional perspective, higher concentrations of these plant pigments improve many aspects of visual and cognitive ability,” Harth told Medical Xpress. Harth is a doctoral candidate in the University of Georgia’s College of Public Health.
Benefits of lutein- and zeaxanthin-rich foods
The study focused on how an athletes’ visual range may improve by eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. The paper was published in Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews.
Lutein and zeaxanthin add yellow or orange color to various common foods. These foods include cantaloupe, pasta, corn, carrots, orange or yellow peppers, fish, salmon and eggs. Other excellent sources of these carotenoids include broccoli, peaches, mangoes, berries, pumpkin, spinach and Swiss chard.
Eating foods with these antioxidants protect the retina from blue light damage. They act like sunglasses for the eye and protect the macula in the retina’s center. These pigments also help prevent age-related macular degeneration.
“Many athletes already take measures to reduce the impact of blue light through eye black or blue blocker sunglasses, but eating more foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin can improve the eye’s natural ability to handle blue light exposure,” Harth said in Medical Xpress.
The way individual bodies absorb and use lutein and zeaxanthin varies, but the overall health benefits are evident, according to the study authors.
“We have data from modeling and empirical studies showing that higher macular pigment in your retina will improve your ability to see over distance.” Harth told Medical Xpress. “The application for athletes is clear.”
Eat healthy, schedule eye exam
According to the Centers for Disease Control, healthy eating may help people live longer, as well as provide the following benefits:
- Keeping skin, teeth and eyes healthy
- Supporting muscles
- Boosting immunity
- Strengthening bones
- Lowering risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers
- Supporting healthy pregnancies and breastfeeding
- Helping the digestive system function
- Helping achieve and maintain a healthy weight
In addition to eating nutritious foods, getting a comprehensive eye exam is also important for your overall health. Many diseases show early signs in the eyes, including cardiovascular health and diabetes.
During the exam, your doctor will check for the following:
- Refractive error: nearsighted, farsighted or astigmatism
- Focusing problems, including presbyopia
- Other vision problems, such as strabismus, amblyopia or binocular vision
- Eye diseases, such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy
Eye doctors recommend regular screenings beginning at age 40 or earlier if you have eye disease risk factors, including family history, diabetes and high blood pressure.
Protect your vision by eating a healthy, balanced diet, and schedule your comprehensive eye exam with your ophthalmologist.
When Should You See a Doctor for Abdominal Pain – And Why?
Whether it’s a fleeting discomfort or persistent agony in your abdomen, understanding when to consult a doctor can be crucial in identifying and managing underlying conditions, such as colon cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Symptoms like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, pain, and bloody stools are your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right.
Timely intervention not only ensures early detection of potentially serious conditions such as colon cancer but also enables appropriate management and treatment. It allows for the implementation of strategies to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent complications associated with chronic gastrointestinal conditions like Inflammatory Bowel Disease and others.
Abdominal Pain: When to See a Doctor
Abdominal pain is a common symptom that can range from mild to severe and can originate from various sources within the digestive system. While some instances of abdominal pain may resolve on their own, others may signal a more serious underlying condition. That’s why it’s so important to be able to recognize when it’s time to consult a doctor.
- Severe or persistent pain: If your abdominal pain is intense and continues for an extended period, it’s essential to seek medical attention. This level of pain may be indicative of a severe condition that requires immediate evaluation, and the sooner we can identify what’s going on, the better our ability to treat it effectively.
- New-onset pain: If you experience abdominal pain that is different from your usual discomfort — if it arises suddenly — it’s crucial to consult a doctor. Things don’t happen for no reason, and this change could be a sign of an underlying issue that requires further investigation.
- Associated symptoms: Pay close attention to additional symptoms that accompany your abdominal pain, because your gut sends signals to the rest of your body when something is amiss. These symptoms may include fever, unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), blood in your stool, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. Having a full picture of what’s going on can help your gastrointestinal doctor diagnose your pain fully.
Why It’s Important to See a Doctor for Abdominal Pain
Celiac Disease: Get Diagnosed and Alleviate Other Symptoms
Conditions like Celiac Disease can present in a multitude of symptoms — many of which don’t pertain to your digestive system, but all start there. The damage that Celiac Disease can do is more than just upsetting your stomach when you eat gluten: Celiac Disease essentially attacks your immune system and can potentially cause long-term harm throughout your body.
Colon Cancer: Early Detection for a Better Outcome
As the second-leading cause of cancer deaths, colon cancer is a significant concern when it comes to abdominal pain — but it is the only one that is PREVENTABLE. That’s why it’s vital to get a colonoscopy by age 45 (or sooner if you have risk factors or family history): Colon cancer rarely has symptoms in its earliest stages. Early detection can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment, and even catch precancerous polyps before they grow into cancer. While not all abdominal pain is directly linked to colon cancer, being proactive about screening can save lives.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Treat Recurring Abdominal Pain
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract and includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both of which can cause abdominal pain. If you are experiencing recurrent or persistent abdominal pain accompanied by diarrhea, rectal bleeding, or weight loss, it is crucial to consult a gastroenterologist for a proper evaluation. We can diagnose and treat IBD and get you on the path to feeling better.
Treating Other Abdominal Conditions
Abdominal pain is not normal and can stem from various causes, ranging from benign to potentially life-threatening conditions. It could mean diverticulitis, ulcers, appendicitis, or more. There’s no need to ignore or underestimate persistent or severe abdominal pain when consulting your gastrointestinal doctor can bring relief from symptoms and keep you healthy.
Contact a Gastrointestinal Doctor for Abdominal Pain
Consulting a gastroenterologist when you experience abdominal pain allows for a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C. in Troy, Mich. possess the knowledge and expertise to conduct a thorough examination, perform necessary tests, and provide an accurate diagnosis to help you stay healthy and feel better.
Make a Comprehensive Eye Exam Top Priority as the Year Ends
Even though an eye exam takes less than an hour, the most common excuse for not going to the eye doctor is being too busy. A yearly eye exam is one of the best things you can do for your health, but many Americans are not current with their preventive vision care.
The truth is that everyone can make time to get their eyes checked. In the time it takes to watch a sitcom or crime drama, you can visit a board-certified ophthalmologist who can help determine whether you have a degenerative eye disease.
Common eye diseases and conditions
In the time it takes for you to grocery shop or get your tires rotated, your ophthalmologist can screen for common eye diseases. Early detection of eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration can prevent eye damage and preserve vision.
Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in people 55 and older, and most people will develop a cataract sometime during adulthood. Glaucoma refers to a family of eye diseases that affect the optic nerve and can develop without warning signals. Age-related macular degeneration affects about 5 percent of adults 65 or older and affects central vision needed for driving and reading.
The cost of skipping an eye exam
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 93 million Americans are at risk for significant vision loss, but only half visited their eye doctor in the past year. You may think it’s not a problem if you skip your comprehensive eye exam, but you may want to think again. Here are some health concerns if you delay preventive eye care.
- You could be putting your safety at risk. Often, our eyes are our first line of defense and can keep us from falling or getting into a car accident.
- You could miss an important health diagnosis. Your eyes offer a window into your overall health. Sometimes ophthalmologists can detect chronic health conditions like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol and hormone imbalance.
- You may have undiagnosed allergies. Millions of Americans experience itchy, watery, scratchy eyes during allergy season. Your eye doctor can diagnose eye allergies and provide treatment so you can be more comfortable.
Meeting your deductible can decrease medical costs
Have you met your deductible? Studies show most patients meet their deductible by May, so you might have already met your annual deductible. If this is the case, don’t delay getting an eye exam or scheduling an eye procedure, like cataract surgery. Call your insurance company to verify whether you have met your deductible or are close to meeting it. You can also ask for an estimate of benefits to prepare financially.
Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs): quality procedures for less
The same procedure may cost much less if you are flexible with where you schedule it. If you need cataract surgery or an eye procedure, it is wise to ask your ophthalmologist about your options for the medical facility you will visit.
An ambulatory surgery center (ASC) is an outpatient facility that offers easy-access, high-quality medical procedures with financial transparency. ASCs can save money because they are usually a fraction of the cost of hospitals. You can also use a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) to use pre-tax money for your qualified medical expenses. Both of these decisions will result in more cash in your pocket.
Eye exams are worth the investment
Preventive eye care does not have to be time-consuming or expensive. Good vision is a priceless gift, but you need to schedule yearly exams to keep your eyes healthy. Annual comprehensive eye exams can prevent chronic conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts before they impair your vision. If you need cataract surgery, schedule your procedure now and maximize your health benefits. Call today to make an appointment.
Busy Schedule? There’s Still Time to See an Orthopedist.
You may think visiting an orthopedist is unnecessary unless you have a problem, but you might want to reconsider. Bone and joint health are essential to your overall wellness, just like a physical exam and preventive screenings. Here are three reasons to visit an orthopedist, regardless of your age.
Our bone tissue changes with age
Years of daily activity can take its toll on bones, joints and ligaments. Over time, bones lose minerals and density. They become more brittle, which increases the risk of falls and injury. Calcium, the mineral your body needs to build and maintain healthy bones, can decrease to low levels and affect bone strength.
Arthritis can develop at any time
Arthritis is a common condition that develops when joints get inflamed and swollen. According to the CDC, about 15 million Americans (one in four) have severe joint pain because of their arthritis. Also, about half say they experience persistent pain.
Anyone can develop arthritis, but older people are more susceptible. Daily wear and tear can erode the soft cartilage that cushions the joints, resulting in osteoarthritis. Athletes can develop arthritis by joint overuse or injury.
Osteoporosis affects everyone
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mass and bone mineral density decrease. It can also develop when the strength or structure of bone changes. Many people assume osteoporosis only affects females, but this is incorrect. While post-menopausal women are at increased risk for bone loss, all people lose bone density with age. About 25 percent of all bone fractures in adults older than 50 are men. Common fracture sites are the hip, spine and wrist.
Make your bone and joint health a priority
Life is busy, but your bone and joint health are worth the investment. A yearly appointment with an orthopedist can help ensure your joints function well and you maintain bone strength. Your doctor can recommend exercises, dietary changes, supplements or therapy.
Sometimes, your doctor may suggest a procedure like a total hip replacement, shoulder surgery or knee arthroscopy. Often, treatment plans combine an array of options. Your doctor will fully explain your choices and the pros and cons during your appointment.
Schedule your surgery at an ASC
If you have been considering an orthopedic procedure like a knee or hip replacement, scheduling your surgery in the second half of the year may make financial sense. Studies show most patients meet their deductible by May, so you might have already met your annual deductible.
If this is the case, don’t delay scheduling your procedure. Call your insurance company to verify whether you have met your deductible or are close to meeting it. You can also ask for an estimate of benefits to get a complete picture of out-of-pocket costs.
Another way to reduce costs is to choose an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) for your procedure. ASCs are accredited and certified by industry organizations for quality and safety, and they provide personalized care in a home-like setting. When deciding where to schedule your procedure, ask about facility and surgeon fees, and select an in-network surgery center.
A visit to your orthopedist does not have to be time-consuming or expensive. With some planning, you can prioritize your joint health, even when you’re pressed for time!
Many Patients Not Getting Follow-up Colonoscopy
Statistics estimate about one in every 20 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime.
CRC is a leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., but the disease may be prevented through timely screenings.
Healthcare agencies recommend that first screenings for people at average risk for developing CRC should begin at age 45. If you have certain risk factors, you may need to be screened earlier.
Several colorectal cancer screening options are available. Many individuals choose a noninvasive, stool-based test they can do at home. These tests are convenient, but they cannot diagnose polyps or tumors, and they cannot prevent CRC development.
Experts advise anyone who receives an abnormal stool-based test result to follow-up with a colonoscopy within six months.
Failing to get a follow-up colonoscopy or delaying the procedure is associated with an increased risk of colon cancer, as well as having the disease present at a more advanced stage.
CRC complications, mortality risk increases
Jeff T. Mohl, PhD, from the American Medical Group Association in Alexandria, Virginia, and colleagues conducted a mixed-methods cohort study, recently published in JAMA Network Open.
The study population included 32,769 Black, White, Asian and Hispanic patients aged 50 to 75 years who were considered at average risk for the disease. The data was collected between June 1, 2015, and June 30, 2021.
The study revealed 49 percent of patients who received abnormal stool-based test results did not follow up with a colonoscopy within six months. Only 56.1 percent of patients completed a follow-up colonoscopy within a year.
Researchers noted a significant decrease in follow-ups during the early COVID-19 pandemic. Patients who were Black or Asian, those on Medicare or Medicaid, and those who chose a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) (vs. mtDNA) had lower follow-up colonoscopy rates.
“At-home stool-based testing offers a useful tool to supplement routine colonoscopy and reach a wider patient population,” the researchers advised. “Nonetheless, it is important to emphasize that all positive stool-based tests must be followed by a timely colonoscopy to complete the screening paradigm.”
Get screened at age 45
The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates 153,020 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and 52,550 people in the U.S. will die from the disease this year.
If you are 45 and at average risk for CRC, ask your doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer. Earlier screening is advised for patients with a family history of CRC or polyps, as well as those with digestive symptoms that may be caused by CRC.
The five-year survival rate is about 90 percent when colorectal cancer is found at an early stage before it has spread to other organs.
Also, if CRC is found early, more treatment options may be possible, according to the ACS. Only about four out of 10 colorectal cancers are found at this early stage.
Although it is more invasive than other screenings, colonoscopy is the only screening method that can both detect and prevent CRC. Colorectal cancer often begins as a growth, called a polyp, inside the colon or rectum. Colonoscopy involves a complete examination of the colon where doctors can find and remove polyps before they become cancerous.
“Not completing a colonoscopy after a positive (stool-based test) is associated with a significantly higher risk of CRC complications and mortality,” authors of the study reported.
For your health, ask your doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer. Whether you need to schedule your first CRC screening or a follow-up colonoscopy, don’t delay this life-saving procedure.
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