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Cancer that begins in the colon or rectum (colorectal cancer) is the third leading cancer in men and women in the United States. But colorectal cancer is highly preventable and often curable if found early. Regular screening tests can help find precancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. This article will discuss the importance of colorectal cancer screening market and the different screening options available.
Colorectal Cancer Statistics
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. According to statistics from the American Cancer Society:
– In 2022, it is estimated that there will be about 149,500 new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed and about 52,500 people will die from the disease
– Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women in the United States
– Both black and Hispanic Americans have higher incidence and death rates than other racial and ethnic groups
– About 4 out of 10 colorectal cancers are diagnosed at the local stage, when there is a better chance of survival compared to cancers found at later stages
Colorectal cancer risk starts to become significant at age 50. The risk increases with age. The risk is higher for those with a family history or certain health conditions like a history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease.
Importance of Screening for Preventing and Detecting Colorectal Cancer
Regular screening tests for colorectal cancer starting at age 50 can prevent cancer before it starts or detect it early when it is small and easier to treat. Screening tests allow doctors to find and remove precancerous polyps or early-stage colorectal cancers before they have a chance to spread to other parts of the body.
When colorectal cancer is found at the earliest stages, the 5-year survival rate is about 90%. However, the 5-year survival rate drops significantly to 14% if the cancer has spread to distant organs at the time of diagnosis. This shows the value of screening tests in detecting colorectal cancer early before it spreads.
Some key reasons why colorectal cancer screening is important:
– It can prevent colorectal cancer by removing precancerous polyps before they become cancerous. Polyps can take 10-15 years to turn into cancer. Screening allows doctors to find and remove polyps before that happens.
– It detects colorectal cancer at an early stage, when treatment is most effective. Early-stage colorectal cancer five-year relative survival rate is about 90%.
– It reduces colorectal cancer incidence rates and mortality. Regular screening Starting at age 50 has been shown to reduce colorectal cancer incidence and death rates by as much as 60%.
– Most screening tests are non-invasive and painless. Tests like fecal immunochemical test and fecal occult blood test involve stool samples that can be done from home. Other tests like colonoscopy involve mild prep but are very effective at screening.
Overall, getting regularly screened starting at age 50 is a crucial step toward preventing and detecting colorectal cancer in its earliest stages. Early detection saves lives.
Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests
There are several screening options for colorectal cancer that are recommended by organizations like the US Preventive Services Task Force and American Cancer Society based on age and risk level:
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
– This non-invasive test involves using a brush to collect a small amount of stool at home. It is then returned to a doctor or lab to check for indications of blood which could signal polyps or cancer.
– Recommended every year starting at age 50.
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
– Similar to FIT, this test checks for blood in the stool using a chemical reaction. It must be done on three separate stool samples collected at home.
– Recommended every year starting at age 50.
Colonoscopy
– This test uses a thin, lighted scope to visually examine the entire colon and rectum. Polyps can be removed during the test.
– Recommended every 10 years starting at age 45 for average-risk individuals. It is also used when abnormal screening test results need follow up.
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)
– A series of X-rays are taken of the colon and rectum to detect polyps and cancer. It doesn’t require sedation but can’t remove polyps.
– For those aged 50-75 with average-risk, recommended every 5 years.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
– This test examines the rectum and lower third of the colon with a thin, flexible scope. It cannot see the entire colon.
– Recommended every 5 years along with annual FOBT or FIT.
The key is to talk to your doctor and choose a screening option that fits your risk level and lifestyle. People with colorectal cancer risk factors may need to be screened earlier or more often using these important tests. Early detection saves lives.
Removing Barriers to Colorectal Cancer Screening
While screening tests are effective, a significant number of eligible adults are not up to date with screening. Some of the factors that serve as barriers to screening include:
– Lack of awareness about screening guidelines and importance of regular screening
– Fear or anxiety about screening procedures
– Concerns about screening costs and whether insurance covers them
– Lack of provider recommendation to get screened
– Preconceptions about screening exams being painful or unpleasant
– Busy schedules that make finding time for screening appointments difficult
There are efforts to address some of these barriers and make screening easier:
– Education campaigns such as ‘80% by 2018’ from the CDC aim to boost public awareness
– Newer tests like FIT are easier to use and less invasive than colonoscopies
– Insurers are mandated to fully cover routine screening under the Affordable Care Act
– Providers are encouraged to discuss screening at annual wellness visits
– Some practices offer screening outside regular hours for working individuals
By increasing awareness, making tests easier, and eliminating cost concerns, more people can be encouraged to take the important step of regular colorectal cancer screening market starting at age 50. Early detection saves lives.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
