Early Detection is the Key to Fighting Colorectal Cancer
More than 1/3 of deaths could be avoided if people over 50 were screened regularly

Colorectal screening tests save lives. Starting at age 50, men and women should get screened. These tests not only detect colorectal cancer early, but can even prevent colorectal cancer.
The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age. Most cases occur in people 50 and older. More than one-third of colorectal cancer deaths could be avoided if people over 50 had regular screening tests.
“Screening tests are so important because they can find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best. When colorectal cancer is detected in the earliest stage of the disease, the survival rate is greater than 90 percent,” said Dr. Mitch Blom, family practice physician at Pella Medical Clinic. “Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Screening tests can help prevent colorectal cancer by finding pre-cancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer.”
Beginning at age 50 for men and women of average risk, your doctor may recommend the following tests:
Fecal occult blood test—It determines if there is blood in the stool. If present, more testing is usually required to locate the source of the bleeding.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy—A thin, illuminated tube is used to screen the rectum and the lower section of the colon for cancer or polyps.
Double-contrast barium enema—For this test, the colon is expanded so that X-rays may be taken of the colon and rectum.
Colonoscopy—The entire colon is screened for cancer, and polyps can be removed for testing during this procedure.
“You should discuss beginning earlier screening with your doctor if you have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, a personal history of chronic inflammatory bowel disease or a family history of a hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome,” adds Dr. Blom. “If you have an immediate family member that has been diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer, screening should begin ten years sooner than your family member’s diagnosis of cancer.”
Pella Regional Health Center is a not-for-profit provider of healthcare that is accredited by The Joint Commission. Its mission is to provide healthcare and healing services with Christian compassion. Information on Pella Regional Health Center and its clinics is available by calling Public Relations at 641-621-2358 or visiting the website, www.pellahealth.org.