Get the message. Schedule a colonoscopy.
In Connecticut, colorectal cancer is the third-most common cancer diagnosed in women and the fourth-most common cancer diagnosed in men, according to the state Health Department.
A colonoscopy is one of the few screening tests that can actually prevent colon cancer. By finding and taking colon polyps out before they become cancer, doctors can prevent their later development into cancer. When caught early, colorectal cancer has a 90 percent survival rate.
Why get a colonoscopy?
The rate of colorectal cancer diagnoses has dropped each year since the mid-1980s because more people are getting screened and more people are adjusting their lifestyle to reduce risk factors.
Key factors that can increase the risk of colorectal cancer include:
- Age: Current guidelines recommend screening begin at age 45 for people at average risk
- Personal history of colon cancer, polyps or inflammatory bowel disease
- Family history of colon cancer or polyps.
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), a hereditary condition that creates hundreds of polyps in the colon and rectum.
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Heavy alcohol use
Why wait?
Make an appointment for your colonoscopy today!
