Colorectal Cancer Screenings: The Single Best Method to Prevent Colon Cancer

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Colorectal Cancer Impacts the American Indian Population at an Alarmingly High Rate

In Oklahoma, colorectal cancer disproportionately affects American Indians, with mortality rates higher than the population on average. Colon and rectal cancers are the second most common cancers among Native people, but it does not have to be common if you get screened regularly. OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, is working with tribal nations in Oklahoma to help you understand your risk for colorectal cancer and take steps to get screened. There are several ways to screen for colorectal cancer, but we say, the best screening method is any that you choose to complete.

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a disease that originates in the colon or rectum, the final part of the digestive tract. These cancers are often grouped together since they have many common features. Most colorectal cancer starts as a growth in the lining of the colon or rectum, called polyps. Not all polyps are cancerous, but the type of polyp determines if cancer is possible. Colorectal cancer impacts both men and women and typically affects middle-aged adults, although it can happen at any age.

Talk to your doctor to learn more about how to get screened.

Protect Your Health with Routine Colorectal Cancer Screenings

Screenings save lives, and early detection is vital to successful colorectal cancer treatment. Screening tests find polyps so they can be removed before they can turn into cancer. If you’re 45 or older, getting screened could be the difference between life and death. Most people with colorectal cancer have no symptoms until their disease is very advanced. When detected early, colorectal cancer can be treated much more effectively with treatments such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Options

• Stool-Based Test

Also called a “FIT Test,” this test detects blood in the stool. With a doctor’s order, a kit will be sent to your home. Follow the instructions in the kit, which usually includes a small brush that is used to obtain a very small stool specimen that is then placed into the provided envelope and mailed back to the lab in a postage paid envelope.

• Colonoscopy

This procedure is designed to check for colon problems and is performed under sedation. During a colonoscopy, your doctor will insert a one-time-use, thin, flexible, lighted tube to check for polyps or cancer inside the rectum and colon. During this test, the doctor can remove most polyps and therefore prevent cancer. The test is recommended at least once every 10 years depending on the patient’s risk factors.

Why Get Screened?

The best colorectal cancer screening is one you choose to complete.
Colorectal cancer mortality rates among American Indians are much higher than the rest of the population.
When detected early, colorectal cancer can be treated much more effectively with treatments such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Routine colorectal screenings could save your life.

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Colorectal Cancer in the American Indian Population | OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center

Colorectal cancer doesn’t have to be common. Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer among Native people and the second leading cause of cancer death. You can decrease your risk of colon cancer through regular screenings and a healthy lifestyle. Screening options are not limited to colonoscopies, there are now tests you can take in the comfort of your home. Talk to your doctor today about a screening that is right for you.