Higher screening rates credited with colorectal cancer decline

A recent University of California, Irvine study revealed that screenings have had a profound effect on the prevalence of colorectal cancer. From 1998 to 2002, colorectal cancer dropped from 42.8 cases per 100,000 people to 38.6 cases per 100,000 people. The drop in diagnosed cases came at the same time that colonoscopy screenings increased by 80%. With proper screenings, colorectal cancer is a preventable form of the disease. During a colonoscopy, non-cancerous polyps can be removed, preventing possible cancer development.

Colonoscopy is widely considered the most effective screening option. There are other alternatives such as a flexible sigmoidoscopy where a tube is inserted only into the lower portion of the colon. According to the American Cancer Society, men and women over age 49 should follow one of these screening options:

• A yearly stool blood test or fecal immunochemical test.
• A flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years.
• A yearly stool blood test plus a flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years.
• A double contrast barium enema every five years.
• A colonoscopy every 10 years.

Ask your doctor which screening options are best for you. Your doctor's recommendations may very from the above options based on your medical history.