Colon cancer detection in Saint Lucie County

How do you get tested for colon cancer?

Colon cancer is a silent killer. Its symptoms don’t show in the early stages of the disease, and they can be confused with signs of other illnesses, but it is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths for men and women combined. Therefore, it is extremely important to get colon cancer detection in Saint Lucie County to identify it in its early stages.

The following tests are not only used for colon cancer detection, but also to discover polyps or other abnormalities. They can be performed even when a person does not have symptoms associated with colon cancer.

• A fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
• A fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
• A stool DNA
• A colonoscopy
• A sigmoidoscopy
• A virtual or CT colonoscopy
• A double contrast barium enema (DCBE)

 

• A double contrast barium enema (DCBE) All these tests work differently: some examine stool samples, others look at the colon with a camera and others take images of the colon via X-rays. This means that the recommended frequency of screening varies with each method.

FOBT and FIT check for blood in the stool. They should be taken every year for an adequate window of detection. Stool DNA goes further and studies the DNA in the stool. It can be taken once every three years.

Sigmoidoscopy, CT colonoscopy and DCBE are recommended every five years. Colonoscopy, which examines the colon with a device called the colonoscope, should be performed every ten years if the risk of cancer is average.

Some important guidelines to follow regarding colon cancer screening:

• Screening for most adults should begin at age 50 with one of the screening methods mentioned above.

• If you suffer from inflammatory intestinal conditions, have a family history of colon cancer or suffer from diseases such as diabetes and Lynch syndrome, your doctor will recommend starting screening earlier.

• The frequency with which you should be screened will depend on the type of method and on your individual risk factors.

• If you’re over 75 and have an average risk of colon cancer, screening might not be necessary any longer. If you have a high risk of the disease, you should continue regularly.

To catch colorectal cancer in its early stages, colon cancer detection in Saint Lucie County is a must. Having a prudent screening plan will help you prevent its occurrence by detecting and removing before it causes too much harm.

At the Institute of Health & Wellness, we care about every single patient. We will provide personalized treatment for colon cancer and other colorectal conditions according to your specific needs and circumstances.

Contact the Institute of Health & Wellness for more information on colon cancer detection in Saint Lucie County.

Phone: 772-539-9556
Address: 218 SW Atlanta Ave, Stuart, Florida 34994