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Diagnostics
by kevin on July 25, 2005
A recent release from the american cancer society suggests that less than half of adults have received a colonoscopy, and its becoming evident:
And their avoidance is taking a toll: roughly three of five colorectal cancer diagnoses are being made at the later stages of the disease, when cure rates range from 10 to 67 percent.I wrote last year that compliance with colon cancer screening continues to be low, and gave various options patients can discuss with their physician:
It is recommended by most organizations that people at average risk should start screening for colon cancer start at age 50. Those with a first-degree relative who has had colon cancer or an adenomatous polyp should start at age 40.("Colorectal Cancer - A Colonoscopy Is The 'Gold Standard' For Early Detection", Medical News Today, Jul.25; Kevin, M.D., Sept.30, 2004)
There are several options that can be discussed:
1) fecal occult blood test (FOBT) every year, with a colonoscopy if positive;
2) flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years;
3) FOBT + flexible sigmoidoscopy, FOBT should be done first because a positive result is an indication for colonoscopy, obviating the need for sigmoidoscopy;
4) colonoscopy every 10 years;
5) double-contrast barium enema every 5 years.
Permalink: Colon cancer screening
Trackback: http://publish.creative-weblogging.com/publish/mt-tb.pl/7927
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