Wellness Guide: Colorectal Cancer

How Your Doctor Can Help

You should discuss with your doctor or health care provider whether you have a family history of colorectal cancer, polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease. If you have any of these conditions you may need to have more frequent screening. There are several tests that screen for colorectal cancer. All people should start to have screenings by time they are 50 years old.

• Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): The FOBT looks for hidden blood, which is referred to as occult, in your stool. This is a test that you can do at home and should be done annually.

• Colonoscopy (koh-LON-oh-skope): This is a more extensive test and once performed does not need to be repeated that often. Your physician will need to refer you to a specialist to have this test. This doctor will use a long, flexible, lighted tube to look inside your entire large intestine. You will be asked to follow a special diet for 1-3 days before the test in order to make sure your colon is pretty empty. You will be given medicine during the procedure to help you relax (sedation) which may make you sleepy. You will need someone to drive you home afterwards. This test usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. You may feel some cramping and mild discomfort during the test. Other possible complications, though rare, should be discussed with your doctor prior to the test. This test is generally done every 10 years, unless otherwise specified by your doctor.

• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Very similar to the colonoscopy and currently not as frequently used. It allows the doctor to see a smaller amount of your colon which is why most now tend to refer you for a complete colonoscopy.

Having a conversation with your doctor or medical provider is the best way to determine which test or tests is best for you.

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