Regular screening is the best defense against colorectal cancer.
In recent years, Omar Tamimi, MD, Chair of the Department of Gastroenterology at Community Medical Center (CMC), has noticed a disturbing trend: A growing number of his colorectal cancer patients are young adults in their 30s and 40s. His observation is consistent with national statistics: In 2004, 10 percent of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer were younger than age 50, and in 2015, 12 percent fell into that age group, according to a 2019 study published in the journal Cancer. What’s more, the study found that younger adults tended to have more advanced (Stage III and Stage IV) cancers when they were diagnosed.
Scientists don’t know why the disease is striking younger people, but it’s often linked to family history. “While the majority of colorectal cancers don’t have genetic causes, recent studies have shown that among people in their 40s, a higher percentage of cases—perhaps 20 to 30 percent—are genetic,” says Dr. Tamimi.
Screening options
Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. for both men and women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that people at average risk for the disease begin screening at age 50. Those who have a higher-than-average risk due to inflammatory bowel disease or a family history should be screened earlier. “People who have a first-degree relative (a parent, sibling or child) with colorectal cancer should begin screening at age 40 or 10 years earlier than the age at which their relative was diagnosed,” says Dr. Tamimi.
The “gold standard” screening test for colorectal cancer is colonoscopy, in which a flexible, lighted tube is used to examine the entire colon and rectum. During the exam, which is performed while a patient is sedated, the physician can remove any abnormal growths, or polyps. This test, which requires a laxative preparation and is about 95 percent accurate, is repeated every 10 years in those with normal results. If polyps or other abnormalities are found, colonoscopy is typically repeated one to five years later.
Other screening tests are stool-based exams, such as the fecal immunochemical test and stool DNA test. Both check for small amounts of blood in stool (colorectal cancers and polyps can bleed). The stool DNA test also detects genetic markers that are present in colorectal cancers and precancers. Each test requires taking a stool sample at home and mailing it to a lab for evaluation. These tests aren’t as accurate as colonoscopy and must be performed once a year or every few years. “Fortunately, there are many screening options,” says Dr. Tamimi. “The more people are aware of their choices and want to be screened, the better.”
Colorectal cancer myths debunked
There are many misconceptions about colorectal cancer. Community Medical Center gastroenterologist Omar Tamimi, MD, frequently encounters the following in his practice:
- “Cancer doesn’t run in my family, so I don’t need to worry about it.” Only about 5 percent of colorectal cases in adults over 50 can be traced to a genetic cause, says Dr. Tamimi.
- “I don’t have any symptoms, so I don’t need to be screened.” Symptoms often occur only when the disease is advanced, says Dr. Tamimi.
- “Colorectal cancer isn’t that common.” Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and third leading cause of cancer death among Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The best prevention
Source: American Cancer Society
In honor of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, which is observed in March, consider taking the following steps to reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer:
- Be active. Moderate and vigorous levels of exercise appear to be protective. Take a brisk walk or go for a jog on as many days of the week as you can.
- Eat healthy. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains may help to lower your risk.
- Limit your consumption of red and processed meats, which appear to increase risk.
- Stay slim. Aim for a healthy weight and pay attention to your waistline (extra belly fat may increase your risk of developing the disease).
- Drink in moderation. Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol may increase your risk.
- Kick the habit. Smoking may raise your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Learn more about programs
Community Medical Center offers many community education programs throughout the year, including ones on the importance of cancer screenings. Check the events calendar or like us on Facebook for updates. For a referral to a gastroenterologist, call 888.742.7123 or visit Community Medical Center.