Talking about colon cancer screening isn’t exactly a dinner table conversation, but it should be something we discuss more openly. Catching it early can make all the difference, yet many people put off screenings because it doesn’t sound like the most fun way to spend a day.
However, here’s the thing—knowing when to get checked could save your life. Whether you have a family history or notice unusual digestive changes, paying attention to your gut health is one of the smartest things you can do. Because when it comes to your health, a little awkwardness is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) states that colon/colorectal cancer, is a prevalent cancer in South Africa, with younger individuals being more affected. The publication mentions that early symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, abdominal discomfort, bowel not emptying, weakness or fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.
The American Cancer Society recommends regular colorectal cancer screening for people at average risk at age 45. The publication claims that this can be done through stool-based tests or visual exams.
Those in good health and with a life expectancy of over 10 years should continue screening until age 75, adds the above society. “For people ages 76 through 85, the decision to be screened should be based on a person’s preferences, life expectancy, overall health, and prior screening history. People over age 85 should no longer get colorectal cancer screening,” explains the mentioned source.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, the most common screening tests for colon cancer are colonoscopy and stool-based tests. Colonoscopy is explained to be the gold-standard test, which inspects the entire length of the colon to detect precancerous polyps called adenomas. The publication states that it requires laxatives and fluids to clean the colon.
The above source continues to explain that stool tests, such as faecal occult blood test (FOBT) and faecal immunochemical test (FIT), check for blood and abnormal DNA.
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