In a game of numbers, there is a new one when it comes to colonoscopies: 45.
That is the age currently recommended by the American Cancer Society for getting an initial screening colonoscopy.
This lowering of the age guidelines is part of a trend that has been happening for several decades, according to Christopher A. Fincke, MD, Gastroenterology.
“Back in 2000, the recommended age was 60,” he said. “Then it was pushed back to 50. But we are still unfortunately finding too many cancers.”
The purpose of a screening colonoscopy is more than screening; it really is colon cancer prevention, according to Fincke.
“A colonoscopy is both a detection and prevention program,” he said. “While a lot of non-invasive tests will assist with detection, only with a colonoscopy can we find early pre-cancerous lesions and remove them.”
Of course, the timing of any endoscopy is a highly-individual matter, based on genetics, family history, and personal health issues. As a member of the Hill Country Memorial Medical Group, Fincke sees patients who are mostly age 65 and older, but there is no lower limit. He has diagnosed colon cancer in patients as early as age 16, and many in their 30s and 40s, with and without a genetic predisposition.
Whatever the age of the patient, the most important colonoscopy is the first one.
“What we find will tell us what your future risk might be,” Fincke said. “We get frustrated when patients have the insurance and benefits that include a colonoscopy, but don’t use them because of stigma or reluctance or just being ‘too busy.’ They risk ending up with colon cancer when they do develop symptoms.”
Fincke notes that 95% of colon cancers are preventable when detected in time.
He understands that the biggest barrier in engaging in a colon cancer screening program is misconception about the whole process. Patients are not only afraid of the sedated procedure, they are afraid of even coming and having the discussion with their doctor. But he uses a convincing counterargument.
“I tell them their fear is in the wrong place,” he said. “There is certainly going to be anxiety around it. But this is a something where you can really change the outcome. Metastatic colon cancer is not something we can routinely melt away with chemotherapy or radiation. It can be a very sad process, and, again, it is 95% preventable. You should be afraid to not have a colonoscopy. You should be afraid not to address it.”
Even the new prep process is less daunting than in the past, consisting of a course of pills and water.
The members of the HCM Medical Group conducting colon cancer screenings boast a proven record in quality. In the past three years, all have an adenoma detection rate–the frequency of finding precancerous lesions–well above the national average.
“We’re actually finding these precancerous lesions very early. We’re removing them. And you know, every time we remove a precancerous polyp, we significantly decrease someone’s lifetime chance of getting colon cancer.”
While a discussion with a primary care physician is always recommended, there is no need to wait for a referral to have a discussion on setting up a colonoscopy procedure. Contact the HCM Medical Group at 830-990-1404.
“We encourage anyone to contact our office to set up a visit. We encourage discussion.”