Colon cancer is highly treatable. So why are people skipping screenings?

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the country, expected to claim the lives of 55,230 people in the U.S. this year alone, according to the American Cancer Society. Yet it’s one of the most treatable cancers.

“The good news is colorectal cancer is highly treatable if caught in its early stages,” explains Dr. Andrew Albert, the medical director of digestive health and a gastroenterologist at Advocate Health Care. “The bad news is many people don’t keep up with routine screening, which can save their life. The sooner we’re able to detect and diagnose colorectal cancer, the more likely a person is to experience a favorable outcome.”

What to expect during a colon cancer screening

Those with an average risk of colorectal cancer should begin screenings at age 45. The two most common screenings – colonoscopy and stool testing – may be recommended earlier or more frequently depending on a person’s risk factors.

During a routine colonoscopy, gastroenterologists examine the colon and rectum, removing polyps growing in the colon lining, as they can change and grow over time and become cancerous. At-home stool tests help clinicians detect blood in the sample, which can indicate polyp growth. Routinely undergoing these screenings is a vital part of colorectal cancer prevention, especially because in most cases, symptoms are not present until cancer has spread to other body systems, which increases the difficulty of treatment.

“These screening methods provide a picture of a patient’s colorectal health and allow us to begin treating cancer as quickly as possible when it’s detected,” Dr. Albert says. “As clinicians, we do as much as we can to educate patients and the community about the importance of routine screening, but many people also need the extra push from someone important in their life to get that test scheduled.”

How accountability plays an important role in cancer screenings

Dr. Albert says research has shown people are more likely to follow through with colorectal cancer screenings when they have reminders and social support.

“Having an accountability partner can make colorectal cancer far less deadly,” he says. “I will never stop urging people to complete screenings on time, but that added layer of a loved one ensuring testing gets done can mean the difference between living and dying from a treatable disease.”

Why people don’t get screened for colon cancer

Many factors may impact a person’s avoidance of colorectal screenings, including:

• Anxiety and fear
• Logistical concerns
• Cost or accessibility
• Believing colorectal cancer only impacts others

“Talk through any concerns you may have about undergoing screening with your doctor,” Dr. Albert recommends. “Find an accountability partner in your life who can help you stay on top of regular screening. Becoming informed about colorectal cancer and getting screened can help save a life.”

Want to learn more about your risk for colorectal cancer? Take a free quiz.