Many people assume there is a certain age or “magic number” when it comes time to consider their colorectal health. However, recent studies suggest that waiting until age 45 or even 50 may be too late for some. A recent article from the Stony Brook Medicine Health Hub notes that colorectal cancer cases are increasing by roughly 1.4 percent each year among adults under the age of 50. Colorectal cancer is so prevalent that it is now the third most common cancer in the United States. The good news is that early detection through screenings can catch cancer early when it’s most treatable.
Colonoscopy Screenings Are the Key to Prevention and Early Detection
Polyps can develop in the colon or rectum and, over time, may become cancerous. Routine colonoscopies play a vital role in prevention by allowing doctors to detect and remove precancerous polyps early.
A colonoscopy is a straightforward outpatient procedure that requires very little from the patient. While the procedure may cause some mild discomfort, most people are able to return to their normal activities within about 24 hours.
Patients who take a proactive approach to their colorectal health are more likely to detect colorectal cancer when it is most treatable. In fact, when cancer is found while it is still confined to the colon, patients have significantly better health outcomes five years after diagnosis compared to those whose cancer is discovered after it has spread.
Colonoscopies Can Call For a Closer Look
Where does Outpatient Radiology come into play? A CT colonoscopy, offered at our main location, is often ordered for patients who have had an incomplete or failed colonoscopy. This exam may also be appropriate for patients taking blood thinners who are not able to undergo a routine colonoscopy.
This virtual procedure allows physicians to inspect and diagnose beyond a traditional colonoscopy, giving them a full view of the colon that was otherwise obstructed. This procedure is essential for preoperative assessments so physicians can understand a patient’s condition and recommend treatment options. Patients preparing for the procedure will follow a clear-liquid diet and take bowel prep such as laxatives to ensure the colon is clear and accurate for imaging. Individuals undergoing the procedure can anticipate 10–15 minutes for the scan itself, with the full appointment lasting around 30–60 minutes.
Care for Your Colon Now, Not Later
The narrative has shifted, and colorectal screenings are no longer a conversation reserved for middle-aged adults. Talk with your primary care physician to see if a CT colonoscopy is right for you, then schedule with Outpatient Radiology at our main campus at https://caspermedicalimaging.net/request-an-appointment/.