WHAT IS COLON CANCER?
Colon cancer is cancer that starts in the colon. Most colon cancers are adenocarcinomas (cancers that begin in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids). Colon cancer often begins as a growth called a polyp, which may form on the inner wall of the colon. Some polyps become cancer over time.
WHO SHOULD BE SCREENED?
Adults should undergo colon cancer screening beginning at age 50 or earlier, depending upon their risk of developing colon cancer. Several tests are available, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. The optimal screening test depends upon your preferences and your risk of developing colon cancer.
WHICH COLON CANCER SCREENING METHOD IS BEST FOR ME?
Different screening methods are recommended depending on people’s risk factors. Some of the screening methods are:
- Colonoscopy: Colonoscopy is an available method of colon cancer screening. It allows your doctor to look inside the walls of your large intestine and determine the presence of polyps, bleeding, inflammation, tumors and ulcers. If the doctor finds polyps in your colon, he or she would usually recommend to have this removed. Polyps in your colon may develop into cancer later on.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, this method of colon cancer screening examines the lower part of your colon, but does not allow the doctor to see the entire colon.
- Double Contrast Barium Enema: In this procedure, X-rays of the rectum are taken after you have been given liquid containing barium. Barium helps outline the colon and rectum on an X-ray and helps show abnormalities.
- CT Colonography or Virtual Colonoscopy: In this procedure, a CT scan produces detailed images of your colon.
DOES COLON CANCER SCREENING HURT?
This is one of the most common questions of patients who are deciding to undergo colon cancer screening. They fear that they will not be sedated enough and will feel the pain of the procedure.
In reality, patients undergoing colon cancer screening are either in total sedation or at twilight sleep throughout the procedure, and many wake up not remembering anything at all about their exam.
If you have been advised to undergo colon cancer screening, particularly, a colonoscopy, rest assured – you will only feel mild pain or discomfort and will be able to resume with your usual activities after the procedure.
WHAT CAN I DO TO LOWER MY RISK OF DEVELOPING COLON CANCER?
There are many things you can do to help lower your risk of developing colon cancer. These include:
- Include colon cancer screening into your annual health check as soon as you’ve reached the age of 50, or sooner if you have risks.
- Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet.
- Fight stress and obesity.
- Avoid smoking.
- Exercise regularly.
Remember, colon cancer screening is one of the best ways to detect polyps in your colon before these become cancer and can save your life.
WHY KIMS?
KIMS, known for being one of the the best cancer hospitals in Hyderabad, has dedicated colon cancer screening programs which aim to find colon cancer in its earliest stages, when it is most curable, and identify people who are at high risk for the disease.
We provide early detection screening as part of our colon cancer treatment hospitals in Hyderabad.
KIMS assuredly has the best colon cancer specialists in Hyderabad that helps put patients at ease.