6 Central Peninsula Hospital Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest form of cancer in the United States. Adults ages 65 to 74 are more likely than younger people to develop it, but recent data also shows an increase in colorectal cancer among adults ages 20 to 49. Routine colorectal cancer screening is important because it can help your healthcare provider detect cancer early—when it is easier to treat. In many cases, screening can even identify and remove suspicious growths before they become cancerous. How colorectal cancer begins Colorectal cancer usually develops from a growth, called a polyp, inside the colon or rectum. If a polyp becomes cancerous, it can grow into the wall of the colon or rectum and eventually spread to other parts of the body. There is no guaranteed way to prevent polyps from forming. However, you may be at higher risk if someone in your family has had polyps or if you: ● Are physically inactive. ● Are overweight. ● Smoke. ● Drink alcohol heavily. Some—but not all—polyps become cancerous over several years if they are not found and removed. Most polyps do not cause symptoms, so you may not know they are there. Colorectal cancer Why you should get screened Central Peninsula Surgical Associates 240 Hospital Place, Suite 305, Soldotna 907-714-4130 Central Peninsula Internal Medicine 247 Fireweed St., Soldotna 907-262-8597 Central Peninsula Gastroenterology 240 Hospital Place, Suite 103B, Soldotna 907-714-6120 How and when to get screened The age at which you should begin colorectal cancer screening depends on several factors, including your overall health and family history. In general: Begin routine screening at age 45. Adults over age 75 should talk with their healthcare provider about whether screening is still recommended and how often it should be performed. Several screening options are available. Talk with your healthcare provider about which test is right for you. 1 Colonoscopy. A colonoscopy uses a long, flexible tube with a tiny camera and light to examine the entire colon and rectum for polyps and other signs of disease. 2 Cologuard®. Cologuard is a noninvasive, prescriptionbased, at-home screening test that looks for both abnormal DNA and blood in your stool. It is intended for adults 45 and older who are at average risk for colon cancer. Unlike other screening methods, a colonoscopy is both a screening and a prevention tool because precancerous polyps can be removed during the procedure, before they have a chance to develop into cancer. Schedule your screening Central Peninsula Hospital offers screening colonoscopies at three convenient locations.
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