March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and Clarke County Hospital encourages people over the age of 50 to be screened for colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death in both men and women, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS), yet it is often preventable through early detection and treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if everyone aged 50 years or older had regular screening tests, then at least 60 percent of deaths from colon cancer could be avoided.
Colon cancer starts as polyps, or a small clump of cells that form on the lining of the colon. Most colon polyps are harmless but evolve into cancer over time. Polyps often don’t have symptoms, so regular screening tests, such as a colonoscopy, detect and remove growths safely before they become cancerous.
Paul Conte, M.D., is a general surgeon who performs colonoscopies at Clarke County Hospital.
“There are many tests available to detect colorectal cancer, but a colonoscopy is the best way to screen the entire colon and remove unwanted growths in one single procedure,” said Dr. Conte. “In most cases, patients who have a colonoscopy do not need to be screened for another 10 years.”
Risk factors for colon cancer include a diet high in red meat and processed meats. Conversely, a diet high in vegetables, fruits and whole grains will decrease risk. Other factors include physical inactivity, obesity, smoking and heavy alcohol use.
Medicare and most insurance plans cover the cost for a screening colonoscopy. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Conte at Clarke County Hospital, call 641-342-5000.