Colon Cancer Screening: Know Your Options (page 2 of 4)

Colorectal Cancer Screening Methods

• A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) checks for hidden blood in the stool. Studies have proven that this test, when performed every 1 to 2 years in people ages 50 to 80, reduces the number of deaths due to colorectal cancer by as much as 30 percent.
  
  
• A sigmoidoscopy is an examination of the rectum and lower colon using a lighted instrument called a sigmoidoscope. Sigmoidoscopy can find precancerous or cancerous growths in the rectum and lower colon. Studies suggest that regular screening with sigmoidoscopy after age 50 can reduce the number of deaths from colorectal cancer.
  
  
• A colonoscopy is an examination of the rectum and entire colon using a lighted instrument called a colonoscope. Colonoscopy can find precancerous or cancerous growths throughout the colon, including the upper part of the colon, where they would be missed by sigmoidoscopy. However, it is not known whether this benefit outweighs the risks of colonoscopy, which include bleeding and puncturing of the lining of the colon. More research is needed to address these issues.
  
  
• A double contrast barium enema (DCBE) is a series of x-rays of the entire colon and rectum. The x-rays are taken after the patient is given an enema with a barium solution and air is introduced into the colon. The barium and air help to outline the colon and rectum on the x-rays. Research shows that DCBE may miss small polyps.
  
  
• A digital rectal exam (DRE) is often part of a routine physical examination. The health care provider inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for abnormal areas. DRE allows for examination of only the lower part of the rectum.

• • Colon Cancer
• Cancer

• Colon Cancer: Are You at Risk?
• A brief guide to the risk factors associated with colorectal cancer.
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• Colorectal Cancer Screening: New Options
• Learn about the latest tests science is studying to screen for colon cancer.
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• After Your Colon Cancer Screening
• What happens if your tests reveal an abnormality?
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• Colorectal Screening Tests: Pros and Cons
• Our colon cancer screening tests chart makes it easier for you to compare the most frequently used exams.
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• Tests to Ace
• 5 exams that could help detect colon cancer.
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• 31 Simple Ways to Prevent Cancer
• Small changes to inoculate yourself against cancer.
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• Complementary and Alternative Therapies in Cancer Treatment
• Complementary and alternative treatments for cancer are becoming more widely used. Here is some basic information to help you evaluate this option.
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• Online Cancer Resources
• A guide to up-to-date cancer research and information
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