When it comes to cancer prevention, knowledge is power—and action is even better. Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet it’s also one of the most common. The key to prevention often lies in detecting and removing polyps before they have a chance to become cancerous. How can this be done? The answer is through a colonoscopy.
In this blog, we’ll explore how a colonoscopy can detect polyps early, what polyps are, and why this procedure is crucial in preventing colorectal cancer. By the end, you’ll understand why scheduling that colonoscopy could be one of the best decisions for your health.
What Are Polyps?
Before diving into how a colonoscopy works, let’s first understand what polyps are. A polyp is a small growth of tissue that forms on the inner lining of your colon (large intestine) or rectum. Most polyps are benign (non-cancerous), but some can develop into cancer if left untreated.
There are different types of polyps, and not all pose the same risk:
- Adenomatous polyps: These are the most common and have the potential to turn cancerous over time.
- Hyperplastic polyps: These are usually harmless and less likely to become cancerous.
- Sessile serrated adenomas (SSAs): These polyps are less common but have a higher risk of becoming cancerous, especially if they’re located in the upper colon.
Polyps often don’t cause symptoms, so most people won’t know they have them unless they undergo screening. This is why a colonoscopy is so important for catching polyps before they become dangerous.
How Does a Colonoscopy Work?
A colonoscopy is a relatively simple procedure, typically taking about 30 to 60 minutes. During the procedure, a doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end (a colonoscope) to examine the inside of your colon and rectum. The camera allows the doctor to visually inspect the lining of your colon for any abnormalities, including polyps.
If polyps are detected during the procedure, your doctor can remove them right away using special tools passed through the colonoscope. This immediate removal greatly reduces the risk of those polyps developing into cancer later on.
The best part? Colonoscopies are generally done under sedation, so you’re relaxed and comfortable throughout the process.
How a Colonoscopy Detects Polyps Early
1. Visualizing the Entire Colon
The power of a colonoscopy lies in its ability to give doctors a detailed view of your entire colon. Unlike other screening tests like stool samples or blood tests, a colonoscopy allows the doctor to see the actual lining of your colon and spot any polyps that might be hiding there.
For example, imagine a scenario where someone is experiencing mild digestive issues, but nothing that seems alarming. A stool test might come back normal, but a colonoscopy could reveal a few small polyps in the colon that aren’t yet causing noticeable symptoms. These polyps could be easily removed during the procedure, preventing them from turning cancerous.
2. Removing Polyps on the Spot
One of the biggest advantages of a colonoscopy is that it’s both diagnostic and therapeutic. During the procedure, if any polyps are found, they can be removed immediately, eliminating the need for a separate surgery or treatment.
This is crucial because some polyps can take years to grow large enough to cause symptoms or turn into cancer. By removing them early, you dramatically reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.
3. Identifying High-Risk Polyps
Not all polyps are the same, and some carry a higher risk of becoming cancerous than others. A colonoscopy allows doctors to not only spot polyps but also to identify which ones are more dangerous.
For example, sessile serrated adenomas (SSAs) are flatter and harder to detect with other screening methods, but a colonoscopy provides the high-resolution imaging needed to find and remove them. These types of polyps are particularly risky because they can develop into cancer more quickly than other forms.
Why Early Detection Matters?
The earlier polyps are found, the easier they are to treat. Colorectal cancer typically starts as a small polyp, but if left untreated, it can grow into a malignant tumor that spreads to other parts of the body.
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. However, when detected early, it’s highly treatable. The 5-year survival rate for people with localized colorectal cancer is about 91%. That means catching the disease early with a colonoscopy significantly improves your chances of successful treatment.
Who Should Get a Colonoscopy?
The general guideline is that adults should start getting regular colonoscopies at age 45. However, you may need to start earlier if you have certain risk factors, including:
- A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- A genetic predisposition, such as Lynch syndrome
- Prior removal of polyps or a history of colon cancer
If you fall into any of these categories or experience symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss, it’s important to talk to your doctor about scheduling a colonoscopy.
The Benefits of Regular Colonoscopies
Colonoscopies don’t just help detect polyps—they can also provide peace of mind. If no polyps are found, you may not need another screening for 10 years, depending on your risk factors. For those with a family history of colorectal cancer or previous polyps, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings.
Think of it as an investment in your future. A colonoscopy today can prevent serious health problems tomorrow.
Consult the Experts at DLDC for Your Colonoscopy
At Digestive and Liver Disease Consultants (DLDC), we believe that early detection is the key to preventing colorectal cancer. Our team of experienced gastroenterologists specializes in performing colonoscopies to help you stay on top of your digestive health.
If you’re approaching the recommended screening age or have any concerns about your gastrointestinal health, don’t wait. Schedule your colonoscopy today with DLDC and take control of your health.
