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Colorectal cancer screening Market involves tests that check the colon and rectum for cancer or pre-cancerous polyps (abnormal growths). The goal of screening is to detect cancer early when it is most treatable. This article covers the signs and risk factors of colorectal cancer, explains the available screening tests for colorectal cancer and their effectiveness. It also discusses who should get screened and the recommended screening schedules.
Signs and Risk Factors
Colorectal cancer often starts as polyps- growths that form on the lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some polyps can turn cancerous if not removed. Many polyps and early-stage cancers do not cause any signs or symptoms, which is why regular screening is so important. Some potential signs of colorectal cancer include: blood in or on the stool, stomach pain, cramps or bloating, unexplained weight loss and a change in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation.
Certain factors can increase your risk of colorectal cancer including age (risk increases after age 50), family history of colon cancer or polyps, personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, smoking, obesity or lack of exercise. People with a family history of cancer in a blood relative are twice as likely to develop colorectal cancer as someone with no family history. However, most people who get colorectal cancer do not have any risk factors other than their age.
Available Screening Tests
There are several screening tests available to detect colorectal cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable. Your doctor can help decide which test is right for you based on your personal risks and health history.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This non-invasive take-home test checks for hidden blood in the stool which could indicate cancer or polyps. The FIT is an accurate screening option when done yearly.
Stool DNA Tests: These lab tests analyze stool samples for certain DNA changes that may point to colorectal cancer. The Cologuard test is the only FDA-approved stool DNA test.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: The doctor inserts a lighted tube into the rectum and lower colon to check for polyps or cancer. This test allows removal of polyps during the procedure. A screening sigmoidoscopy is recommended every 5 years.
Colonoscopy: This is the most complete exam as the doctor can view the entire colon and rectum. It also allows polyps to be removed during the procedure. A screening colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years.
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): This computer imaging test uses x-rays to produce pictures of the colon and rectum to detect polyps and cancer. It does not allow removal of polyps, so a traditional colonoscopy would be needed if polyps are found. Screening with this test is recommended every 5 years.
Effectiveness of Screening
When performed regularly and correctly, colorectal cancer screening tests can detect cancer early when treatment works best, or find and remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. Screening colonoscopies have led to huge decreases in colorectal cancer incidence and death rates over the past few decades. Some estimates show screenings could reduce colorectal cancer deaths by as much as 60-70% with full participation in screening as recommended.
Screening Guidelines
The US Preventive Services Task Force and other health organizations provide the following general guidelines for colorectal cancer screening:
– Average risk individuals should begin screening at age 45.
– African Americans have higher than average risk so screening is advised from age 45. Some experts suggest screening for all African Americans start at age 45 regardless of family history.
– People with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps in a first-degree relative should usually consult their doctor about beginning screening at an earlier age and possibly undergoing more frequent testing.
For average risk people, screening test options include annual FIT, FIT-DNA extended interval test every 3 years, sigmoidoscopy every 5 years combined with FIT every 3 years, or screening colonoscopy every 10 years. The best option is the one the patient is most comfortable with and willing to repeat at recommended intervals.
Conclusion
When performed regularly at recommended ages and intervals, colorectal cancer screening market saves lives by finding cancers early or by removing precancerous polyps before they become deadly cancers. The options for screening tests have improved significantly. People should talk to their doctor about the right screening strategy based on their personal and family risk factors. Widespread participation in screening is vital to effectively reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
