“Colon cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., but it is EASILY the most preventable cancer. I look forward to each March as an opportunity to help us better promote this awareness message and hopefully help reduce the unnecessary deaths related to colon cancer by simply following the recommended screening guidelines.”
– Sameer Islam, MD
5 Colon Cancer Myths
Cancer is a word that gets everyone’s attention! However, it’s important to keep in mind that colorectal cancer is treatable when detected in the early stages of development. Since there are several myths and misconceptions about colon cancer, I want to discuss 5 of the more common myths to better educate those in the Lubbock, TX community.
Myth #1 – Colon cancer is fatal.
Reality: When detected at an early stage, colon cancer is very treatable with a 90% success rate.
Myth #2 – Colon cancer only affects older adults.
Reality: While it is true that your risk of colon cancer increases with age, it can occur in younger adults & teenagers. In 2018, the American Cancer Society recommended that colon cancer screening starts at age 45, rather than 50, for average-risk individuals. This change was made due to a higher incidence of colon cancer in younger adults.
TIP: Discuss your digestive symptoms and when you should be screened for colorectal cancer with your doctor. Doing so will significantly reduce your risk!
Myth #3 – Colorectal cancer screening is not covered under most health plans.
Reality: Most commercial health plans cover the cost of a screening colonoscopy. However, if you are getting a colonoscopy for evaluation of symptoms or a history of colon polyps, your exam will be classified as diagnostic. Therefore, copays and deductibles will likely apply.
TIP: Clarify how your colonoscopy will be classified (screening or diagnostic) prior to your procedure. Doing so will minimize any billing surprises.
Myth #4 – A colon polyp means that I have cancer.
Reality: It is true that a polyp can progress to colon cancer. However, if a polyp is detected and removed prior to this progression, you can avoid colon cancer.
TIP: This reality is the underlying reason for promoting Colorectal Cancer Awareness every March and throughout the year to friends & family. Colon cancer screening can be a life-saving preventative health exam!
Myth #5 –If I don’t have symptoms, I don’t need a colonoscopy.
Reality: Colon cancer is often a “silent” disease. It takes years to grow and by the time symptoms develop it is generally quite advanced and more difficult to treat. This reality is why it is so important to follow colon cancer screening guidelines and your gastroenterologist or primary doctor’s recommendations.
TIP: Factors such as age, medical history, family history, and ethnicity may play a role in the age your doctor recommends getting your 1st colonoscopy. Please have that conversation regardless of whether or not you are experiencing symptoms.
Colon Cancer Screening Guidelines
The American College of Gastroenterology’s current guidelines for a screening colonoscopy are:
- Average-risk individuals should have their first colon cancer screening at age 45.
- Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or polyps will often have their first colonoscopy before age 45. Those in this category should discuss when to begin screening for colon cancer with their primary care doctor or gastroenterologist.
Schedule Your Colon Cancer Screening
We highly encourage anyone age 45+ to receive colon cancer screening to reduce their risk of colon cancer. A colonoscopy is the gold standard for colon cancer screening because it is the only method that allows for the identification and removal of precancerous polyps in the same setting.
Colon cancer is very treatable when caught in early localized stages. So make sure to follow the recommended colon cancer screening guidelines. It may save your life.
If you want to schedule your screening colonoscopy, you can call our office at 806-696-4440 or schedule an appointment online. For patients wanting to bypass an office visit prior to their exam, please inquire about our Open Access Colonoscopy scheduling option.
March 2022 – Colon Cancer Awareness Events Lubbock, TX
Whether you have a personal connection to colon cancer or want to help raise awareness… there are local or national events that you can participate in. I’ve provided basic information on each event below, along with a link to the event website.
National Dress Blue Day
- Date: Friday, March 4, 2022
- Event Info: click here
- Great opportunity to increase awareness at the office or with friends & family!
Lubbock Undy Run/Walk 5k
- Date: Sunday, March 26, 2022
- Location: MacKenzie Park (Lubbock, TX)
- Event Info: click here
