Fighting
colorectal cancer

By ERIC A. SHAPIRO

HARRIS — Colorectal cancer is the number two cancer killer in the United States. More than 56,000 Americans die from colorectal cancer each year. In spite of the large number of people with colorectal cancer, we do not know what causes this disease. However, there is an effective method to prevent the disease and to treat it early.

Colorectal cancer is one of the cancers that can be prevented through screening. Screening allows physicians to identify pre-cancerous growths called polyps, remove them and avoid progression to cancer. Additionally, screening enables doctors to detect cancer in its early stages when it is curable. Screening for colorectal cancer is widely available.

A colonoscopy is generally considered to be a superior screening method. Specially trained physicians, gastroenterologists, regularly perform colonoscopies in order to identify cancer and pre-cancerous conditions.

A colonoscope is a long, plastic coated, flexible fiberoptic tube that is about as thick as a finger. It is inserted through the rectum into the colon. Physicians are then able to examine the lining of the colon. Abnormalities can be studied in detail; samples of tissue can be taken and polyps can be removed.

There is no sensation inside the colon. Removal of polyps and samples of tissue does not cause pain. However, the placement of the tube in the bowel accompanied by air and stretching of the bowel may cause some degree of anxiety and discomfort in patients. Intravenous medications administered during colonoscopies provide patients with comfort and relief.

Colonoscopies are generally safe when performed by specially trained and experienced gastroenterologists. However, as with any medical examination, there may be some risk with this procedure. Even a colonoscopy performed correctly can occasionally result in tearing of the bowel. Surgery may be necessary to remedy this condition. Bleeding and infections may occur. Underlying diseases can worsen. However, the benefits of screening and early treatment of colon cancer and pre-cancerous conditions outweigh, for most patients, the potential risks.

Men and women, especially those over 50, are equally in danger of developing colorectal cancer and should undergo screening for colon cancer or polyps. Persons with a family or personal history of colon cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, breast cancer and Barrett esophagus should be aware of their greater risk for colorectal cancer. Patients with any gastrointestinal systems such as a change in bowel habits, a change in appearance of stool, blood in stool, pain upon defecation, abdominal pain; and recurrent nausea should check with their physicians about screening for colorectal cancer.

Our awareness of colorectal cancer screening and treatment has been raised through the efforts of Katie Couric, co-host of NBC’s Today Show. Her personal and family history has received national media coverage. The United States Senate recognized the importance of colorectal cancer screening by establishing March 2001 as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

The fight against colorectal cancer needs the active collaboration of physicians and their patients. Ignorance or embarrassment can lead to unnecessary suffering or death. Colorectal cancer can be avoided and treated through aggressive surveillance.

Early detection can save lives. Join the fight against colorectal cancer.