LAURIUM – You may dread the preparation required for a colonoscopy or feel embarrassed about having the procedure done, but this screening is an important tool for preventing one of the most common types of cancer: colorectal (colon) cancer.

“Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in America,” said Wendy Frye, MD, general surgeon at Aspirus Health. “It claims nearly 50,000 lives each year in the U.S. alone.”

Whether you are battling the disease yourself or know someone who has been diagnosed, in one form or another, cancer affects nearly everyone.

“Early detection greatly increases survival rates,” Dr. Frye said. “We’ve seen a decrease in the number of deaths from colon cancer over the last few decades because of early detection.”

Colon cancer, like all cancer, forms when cells begin growing out of control. According to the American Cancer Society, most colon cancers begin as a growth, called a polyp, on the inner lining of the colon. Polyps can change over time, becoming colon cancer. It is when a polyp is detected at its early stage that prevention is possible, and treatment is the most beneficial.

When it comes to screening, there are different methods to consider:

— Colonoscopy: A flexible colonoscope examines the entire colon, allowing the doctor to detect changes or abnormalities.

— Takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

— Repeated about every 10 years.

— Virtual colonoscopy: A CT scan produces cross-sectional images of the abdominal organs, enabling the detection of larger polyps and cancers.

— Takes about 10 minutes.

— Repeated about every five years.

— Fecal occult blood test or fecal immunochemical test: Lab tests are used to check stool samples for abnormal bleeding in the digestive tract. This exam may not detect all polyps and cancers.

— Done at home.

— Flexible sigmoidoscopy: A flexible tube allows the doctor to view inside the rectum and most of the lower part of the colon. Abnormalities in the upper colon will not be found.

— Takes about 20 minutes.

— Repeated about every five years.

— Stool DNA test: A sample of stool is collected to test for DNA changes in cells that could indicate precancerous conditions, such as colon cancer.

— Done at home.

— Repeated about every three years.

When considering what test you should have done and how often, it is best to discuss with your primary care provider. Dr. Frye recommends a colonoscopy for finding and treating polyps.

“Getting a colonoscopy is the best method for preventing colon cancer because we can identify polyps that may turn into cancer and remove them before they have a chance to turn into cancer,” Dr. Frye said.

It is generally recommended that those age 50 or older get screened for colon cancer. Be sure to talk to your primary care provider to make sure you’re up to date on recommended health screenings. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 906-337-6560.