A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the interior lining of the colon and rectum. It is a crucial tool for detecting abnormalities such as polyps or cancerous growths, enabling early intervention and treatment.
Colonoscopy involves the insertion of a flexible tube with a tiny camera attached (colonoscope) into the rectum and colon. This allows the doctor to visualise the entire length of the colon and identify any abnormalities.
During a colonoscopy, patients are normally sedated beforehand to minimise discomfort. The colonoscope is then gently inserted, allowing the doctor to examine the colon's lining and perform any necessary interventions.
Colon cancer often develops from precancerous polyps that form on the lining of the colon. These polyps are abnormal growths that can take years or even decades to turn cancerous. The benefit of colonoscopy screening lies in its ability to interrupt this process before it becomes a serious health threat.
Colonoscopy serves two major purposes:
- Early Detection of Cancer
During the procedure, the colorectal surgeon can directly visualise the inside of your colon and rectum. This allows for the identification of any abnormal tissue, including early-stage cancer. Early detection is key, as it increases the chances of successful treatment with minimal side effects.
- Cancer Prevention through Polyp Removal
If polyps are found, they can be removed during the colonoscopy itself. This eliminates the potential for them to turn cancerous in the future.
By identifying and removing polyps during the procedure, the risk of developing colon cancer altogether is significantly reduced.
For many types of cancers, early detection is crucial, but it is particularly important for colon cancer. This is because colorectal cancer often progresses slowly and without any noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
This means by the time a patient starts experiencing symptoms, the cancer may have already advanced. Colonoscopy screening allows us to detect and address these precancerous polyps before they ever cause any problems.
The recommended age to begin colon cancer screening is 50 for low-risk individuals. However, certain factors can increase the risk, and some patients may need to start screening earlier or undergo more frequent screenings. Here is a breakdown of some major risk factors:
- Family History of Colon Cancer
Having a close relative (parent, sibling, child) with colon cancer significantly increases the risk. If someone in your immediate family has been diagnosed with colon cancer, especially at a younger age (under 50), you should consult with your doctor about starting screening earlier than 50.
- Personal History of IBD
IBD, or chronic inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease can raise your risk of colon cancer. The risk typically increases with the duration and severity of the disease. If you have inflammatory bowel disease, your doctor will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule.
- Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits
Certain lifestyle choices can contribute to colon cancer risk. Smoking is a major risk factor, as it damages the cells in the colon and rectum. A diet low in fibre and high in red meat can also increase cancer risk. Fibre helps move waste through your digestive system, and red meat has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. For heavy smokers and those who have unhealthy diets, it is advisable to consult with a doctor about strategies to reduce cancer risk, and whether there is a need to start screening earlier.
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