Colon Cancer Screening Options

• Any screening test is better than NO screening test!!

• High-risk individuals need to begin screening before age 50 and should be screened more frequently.

• Persons who have a relative with a history of colon cancer should begin testing ten years earlier than their relative's age at diagnosis.

FOB- Fecal Occult Blood
Fecal Occult Blood testing should begin at the age of 40 and occur yearly as a part of a physical examination. FOB tests stool for the presence of blood, an indication of presence of polyps (growths found within the colon that can over time develop into cancer). A positive FOB test requires a complete colon examination, such as colonoscopy.

Double Contrast Barium Enema
The patient is given an enema with barium followed by air. The air pushes the barium against the walls of the colon in order to better visualize potential problems. If the test is abnormal, a complete colon evaluation is necessary.Click Thumbnail

Complete Colon Evaluations:

Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is the single most reliable test for detection of polyps and/or cancer. A scope is introduced into the rectum and is able to visualize the colon and check for abnormalities such as polyps. Generally, if a polyp is found, it can be removed with the scope. Removal of polyps is essential in prevention of colon cancer.
A colonoscopy should be performed every 10 years in a normal risk person. If polyps are found during a colonoscopy or if the person is moderate or high risk for colon cancer, a more frequent evaluation may be needed. Click Thumbnail

Sigmoidoscopy
A scope is introduced into the rectum and is able to view a portion of the lower part of your colon. If polyps are found, a complete colon exam, such as colonoscopy will be needed to further evaluate the possibility of other polyps in higher regions of your colon unable to be reached by sigmoidoscopy. Click Thumbnail

Sigmoidoscopy + Fecal Occult Blood (FOB)Testing
Fecal occult blood testing every year as well as a sigmoidoscopy every 5 years is recommended. If FOB testing is positive, a complete colonoscopy should be performed to visualize the entire colon.

Virtual Colonoscopy
Virtual colonoscopy or Computerized tomographic colonography is a new technique used to evaluate the presence of polyps or cancer in the colon. If polyps are found, a colonoscopy will be needed to remove the polyps. View Diagram