How a Colonoscopy Can Save Your Life

Undergoing a colonoscopy may not be something that you look forward to, but having one can bring peace of mind — and it can save your life. More than 50,000 people die of colon cancer each year, but most of those deaths are caused by a late-stage diagnosis. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. 

The number of people under age 55 diagnosed with colon cancer has doubled during the past two decades, and researchers aren’t sure of the cause. Accordingly, federal guidelines have lowered the age for an initial colonoscopy from age 50 to age 45 in people with an average risk. 

Our providers at Desert Valley Gastroenterology in Mesa, Arizona, perform colonoscopies and other gastrointestinal procedures using the latest state-of-the-art equipment. Colonoscopies are the gold standard in detecting and preventing colon cancer, and because March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage you to learn more. 

Why a colonoscopy can save your life

Most colorectal cancers begin as polyps. A polyp is a mass of excess tissue on the lining of your large intestine. Polyps can be benign lumps of tissue or precancerous growths. 

During your colonoscopy, your physician identifies polyps and any other type of suspicious tissue and biopsies them. They remove all polyps and questionable tissue and explain your screening results when the procedure is over. 

Having routine colonoscopies can detect colon cancer and ensure that you take steps to stop it before it spreads to your lymph nodes or metastasizes in other places in your body.

Stages of colon cancer

Colon cancer is classified into five different stages, numbered 0-4. Stages 0-1 indicate that there are cancerous cells in the inner lining and the next layer of tissue in your colon, respectively. Your surgeon may be able to remove all abnormal cells during a colonoscopy.

Stage 2 means the cancer has spread to the outer layer of the colon or rectum. Treatment typically involves surgery and/or chemotherapy. Stage 3 means cancer has spread to your lymph nodes, and Stage 4 means the cancer has spread to other parts of your body. Stages 3 and 4 require radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. 

The five-year survival rate for Stage 4 colon cancer is 13%. That statistic explains how a colonoscopy can save your life — early detection allows for prompt treatment and better outcomes. 

When you should have your first colonoscopy

Your doctor takes your level of risk for colon cancer into consideration when recommending when to undergo your first colonoscopy.

If you’re at average risk, the US Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society recommend initial screening at age 45, followed by screenings every 10 years unless polyps or other growths are detected. 

If you’re at increased risk for colon cancer, you’ll have your first colonoscopy before age 45. Groups at increased risk include those with inflammatory bowel disease and those with a family history of colon cancer, polyps, or a genetic syndrome. 

Your gastroenterologist explains the findings from your colonoscopy and tells you when you need to schedule your next one. 

There’s no question: A colonoscopy is the best way to protect yourself against colon cancer. For all of your gastrointestinal needs, contact Desert Valley Gastroenterology to work with our skilled team of board-certified physicians.