Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer and Polyps: Screening Tests You Need

Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide, often developing from polyps in the colon or rectum. These polyps can initially be benign but may turn cancerous over time. Early detection is crucial in preventing colorectal cancer progression, ensuring timely intervention, and improving survival rates. The best gastroenterology hospital in Noida emphasizes the importance of regular screenings to identify and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer. By undergoing routine screenings, individuals can significantly lower their risk of advanced-stage colorectal cancer and increase their chances of successful treatment.
 

Whether you're at high risk or just due for a routine check-up, trust Felix Hospital for world-class gastroenterology care. Call us now at +91 9667064100.

Understanding Colorectal Cancer and Polyps

What are Colorectal Polyps?

Colorectal polyps are abnormal growths in the lining of the colon or rectum. They are mostly non-cancerous (benign), but others have the potential to become malignant (cancer) if they are not removed. It is very important to identify and have polyps taken out before they can become colorectal cancer.

How Polyps Can Turn Into Cancer Over Time

Some polyps, such as adenomatous polyps, may develop genetic alterations with time and progress to uncontrolled cells. Carcinogenesis occurs most often between 10 and 15 years, which is ample time for early detection and excision before the development of cancer.

Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer

Various risk factors may lead a person to develop colorectal cancer, including:

• Genetic Causes: A history of colorectal cancer in first-degree relatives or inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) may increase the risk.
   
• Lifestyle Causes: High intake of red meat or processed meat, low fiber intake, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and obesity have been linked with increased risk of colorectal cancer.
   
• Medical History: A history of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and a history of colorectal polyps or cancer elevate the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Why Early Detection is Important

Survival Rates with Early Detection vs. Late-Stage Diagnosis

If detected at its early stage, the survival rate for colorectal cancer is very high. Colorectal cancer that is localized has a survival rate of over 90% in terms of five-year survival. But if it is detected late, the survival rate decreases significantly.

How does Screening help identify  Precancerous Changes?

Regular screening examinations, including colonoscopies, can identify polyps or early cancer before they cause symptoms. Early identification means that interventions can be undertaken promptly, increasing the likelihood of effective treatment and an improved general prognosis.

Advantages of Regular Screenings for Those at High Risk

Those who stand the highest risk of developing colorectal cancer—e.g., those who have a history of the disease in their families or have certain medical conditions—stand to benefit significantly from regular screening. Such screenings enable issues to be found early enough so that early action can be taken and cancer will not develop.

Screening Tests for Polyps and Colorectal Cancer

Several screening tests have been developed to identify colorectal cancer and polyps. The tests detect early problems, many before symptoms are even experienced, and provide the chance to have the polyps removed so they never have the opportunity to become cancerous.

Colonoscopy

• Gold Standard: Colonoscopy is best and most commonly used screening test for colorectal cancer. In colonoscopy, a thin flexible tube that has a camera is inserted into the colon to view the lining of the colon for abnormality, such as polyps, which can be removed at the time of the procedure.
   
• Recommended Frequency: Colonoscopy every 10 years is recommended for average-risk individuals.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

• Less Invasive: Flexible sigmoidoscopy is like a colonoscopy but only looks at the lower portion of the colon. It is less invasive and less preparation is needed.
   
• Recommended Frequency: It is usually recommended every 5 years for individuals at average risk.

Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) & Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)

• Non-Invasive Tests: These tests are done on stool to look for occult blood in the stool, which may be colorectal cancer or other disease.
   
• Recommended Frequency: Both tests need to be taken annually.

Stool DNA Test (Cologuard)

• Detects Abnormal DNA: This DNA test for cancer or precancerous cells in the stool. It is an out-of-hospital option for those who are at average risk.
   
• Recommended Frequency: Cologuard is recommended every 1 to 3 years for average-risk individuals.

CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)

• Alternative to Routine Colonoscopy: This is a less invasive procedure that employs a CT scan to obtain close-up images of the colon and rectum. It is typically reserved for those who cannot tolerate a routine colonoscopy.
   
• Recommended Interval: Every 5 years is most often recommended.

Who Should Be Screened?

The American Cancer Society recommends that adults start routine colorectal cancer screening at age 45. However, certain individuals are at greater risk and will have to initiate screening sooner. It is important to be aware of your risk level in order to determine when to start screening and how often to get screened.

People at High Risk

Those who are at increased risk for colorectal cancer will require earlier and more frequent screening. These include:

• Family History: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to begin screening earlier than age 45.
   
• Genetic Syndromes: Syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) increase one's risk for developing colorectal cancer.
   
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis contain a risk of elevating the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
   
• History of Previous Polyps or Cancer: If you have previously had polyps or colorectal cancer, you are meant to receive frequent screenings in order to monitor your condition.

Screening Intervals Based on Risk Category

• Average Risk: For people who have no other risk factors, colorectal cancer screenings must be done every 10 years (colonoscopy) or annually with stool-based tests.
   
• High Risk: People who are at higher risk may need to get screened more often, depending on what their healthcare provider or gastroenterologist suggests.

Why Early Detection is Important?

The most important factor in increasing survival rates in colorectal cancer is early diagnosis. If the cancer is found in its initial stages, more than 90% of the patients survive. But if the cancer is diagnosed later, the survival rate declines drastically. Regular screening identifies precancerous polyps or cancer in its initial stages, so it can be removed in time.

Prevention of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally. And yet, it is one of the most preventable cancers if detected early and healthy changes are made in lifestyle. By following a healthy diet plan, exercising regularly, and monitoring regular check-ups, you can lower your risk to a large extent. In this blog, we will understand preventive measures, the significance of medical check-ups, and how to safeguard yourself from colorectal cancer.

• Healthy Lifestyle and Diet

Healthy lifestyle options are one of the best ways to reduce your risk of getting colorectal cancer. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can go a long way in avoiding cancer and staying healthy.

• Increase Fiber Intake

Eat a diet rich in fiber to lower your risk of colorectal cancer. Fiber makes your digestive tract healthier and supports healthy bowel movements, lowering your cancer and polyp risk. Increase the number of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet to provide fiber.

• Limit Red and Processed Meat Use

Research has indicated that eating large quantities of red and processed meat, including beef, pork, and sausages, can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Eating less of these and more lean protein sources like fish, chicken, or plant-based options like legumes is advisable.

• Exercise Regularly and Maintain a Healthy Weight

Staying active is essential for overall health and cancer prevention. Regular physical activity not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also supports your digestive system and boosts immune function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.

• Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake

Excessive drinking and smoking are both associated with an elevated risk of colorectal cancer. Stopping smoking and decreasing alcohol intake are significant steps in lowering your risk.

• Importance of Regular Medical Check-Ups

Regular medical check-ups are important in recognizing potential health hazards at an early stage. Routine visits to a doctor enable early screening, which is important in the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer before it progresses to later stages.

• Routine Screenings

Regular screening is the best way to find colorectal cancer early, even before a person develops symptoms. Colonoscopies, fecal occult blood tests (FOBT), and flexible sigmoidoscopies are just a few of the tests that can find polyps or cancer in its earliest stage, when it can be removed and treated early. Average-risk patients should start at age 45, but people with a family history or other risk factors should start earlier.

• Individualized Prevention Plans

During your check-ups, your physician will assess your overall health and individual risk factors for colorectal cancer. According to this data, they can assist in designing a personalized prevention program involving diet, lifestyle modification, and the proper screening schedule.

• Genetic Counseling for High-Risk Patients

If you have a history of colorectal cancer or predisposing genetic conditions within your family, genetic counseling can be a great aid in determining your risks. Inherited syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) are identifiable through genetic testing, thereby placing the patient at risk for colorectal cancer.

• Genetic Counseling and Testing

Genetic counselors can walk you through the process of testing and interpret your results to you so that you have all the information necessary to make informed choices about preventive measures, screening, and lifestyle changes. Early screening is the best way to prevent colorectal cancer for those with a family history of the disease.

Meet the Top Gastroenterologists for Colorectal Cancer

For proper diagnosis and management of colorectal cancer, the best gastroenterologists have an important role to play. Felix Hospital has well-qualified professionals who are committed to offering the best standards of care.

• Dr. Jagatjot Singh Gill
  Dr. Jagatjot Singh Gill is a specialist gastroenterologist with expertise in gastroenterology, hepatology, and interventional endoscopy. He has years of experience and offers whole-customer care and high-level diagnostic care for colorectal cancer.

   

• Dr. Amrit Yog Datley
  Dr. Amrit Yog Datley is a veteran gastroenterologist with proficiency in sophisticated diagnostic and therapeutic procedural methods. He specializes in giving customized care to patients and takes an active role in treating colorectal cancer and other GI ailments.

Conclusion

Early detection of colorectal cancer via early screening and lifestyle modification will significantly lower the chances of developing the disease. Adopting a healthy diet, staying physically active, and following through with periodic check-ups and screening puts you on the path of lowering your chances of having cancer.
If you’re due for a colorectal cancer screening or want to learn more about prevention, it’s time to schedule an appointment with one of our expert gastroenterologists. Don't wait for symptoms to appear—early detection saves lives!

FAQs on Colorectal Cancer

Q- Is colorectal cancer screening painful?
Ans- No, the majority of screenings, including stool-based testing, are entirely non-invasive. Colonoscopies are done under light sedation to make the procedure painless.
 

Q- Can I avoid colorectal cancer from occurring if I don't have a family history?
Ans- Absolutely! Lifestyle changes to promote healthy habits, regular screening, and early removal of polyps can greatly reduce your risk, even without a family history of colorectal cancer.
 

Q- How old do I begin screening if I have a family history of colon cancer?
Ans- If there was a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with colorectal cancer, screening would start at age 40, or 10 years prior to the youngest affected relative's age at diagnosis.
 

Q- What is the difference between a colonoscopy and a FIT?
Ans- FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) will pick up on occult blood in stool but not on polyps themselves. Colonoscopy enables physicians to see polyps and take them out when they are able to visualize them.
 

Q- How long will I recover after a colonoscopy?
Ans- Most patients are recovered within a few hours and return to normal activity the next day. But you might prefer someone to drive you home.
 

Q- Can diet affect my risk for colorectal cancer?
Ans- Yes! A low-fat, high-fiber diet, minimal intake of processed meats, and healthy weight may reduce your risk for colorectal cancer.

Q- Are virtual colonoscopies as effective as conventional colonoscopies?
Ans- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) is an excellent option for finding larger polyps but does not permit biopsy or removal during the procedure as with a routine colonoscopy.