JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and third most common in men. It's also one of the most preventable and treatable cancers. The Colon Cancer Alliance continues to bring national attention to colon cancer through "dress in Blue Day", which fell on the first Friday in March. Similar to the pink ribbon for breast cancer, the blue star was chosen to symbolize the memory of those lost to colon cancer and optimism for a future without the disease. Members of the 79th Medical Wing wore blue to remind patients to get tested.
"Everyone is at risk for getting CRC. That's why screenings are so important. Screening rates for CRC, although rising in the United States over the past few years, are generally below national targets. People considered to be at average risk for CRC should start having screening done at age 50. You may need to have screening done earlier if you have a relative with CRC. African Americans are diagnosed with CRC at a younger age than other ethnic groups, so screening in this population has been recommended starting at age 45," said Maj. Stephen Park, Gastroenterologist,779th Medical Group.
"Patients with CRC may or may not have any symptoms. Symptoms of concern may include blood in the stool or on the toilet paper, unintentional weight loss, or a change in bowel habits. If you have any of these symptoms it is recommended that you discuss this with your provider," said Park.
A simple colonoscopy can remove polyps, which are small pre-cancerous growths that can gradually grow into CRC. During a colonoscopy a scope is inserted into the anus all the way to the beginning of your large intestine. The inside of your colon is displayed on a screen via a camera and the gastroenterologist is able to see and/or remove any abnormal growths or polyps. A normal colonoscopy can last between 20 minutes to one hour depending on findings.
While a colonoscopy is the preferred screening test, as it is the only test that can not only detect but remove polyps and prevent CRC, there are also other options for screening. If you have questions about these, please discuss with your provider.
To schedule an appointment for CRC screening at Malcolm Grow Medical Clinics and Surgery Center, you must first get a referral from your primary care manager (PCM).
You may also self-refer to the Gastroenterology (GI) Clinic at Ft. Belvoir Community Hospital or Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Visit the following websites to determine if you meet requirements for self-referral:
http://www.fbch.capmed.mil/healthcare/gastroenterology.aspx
http://www.wrnmmc.capmed.mil/Health%20Services/Medicine/Medicine/Gastroenterology/SitePages/Home.aspx
Most importantly, get your colonoscopy scheduled today. Confront concerning symptoms and be brave enough to speak up.