Screening for colon cancer: When is it needed?
 

My doctor gave me a "fecal test kit". That's because I have been refusing to get a colonoscopy. I'm 71 & 1/2 years old. The Mayo Clinic website suggests there's no need to get tested over age 75. I'm almost there, so give me a break! There's no history of colon cancer in my family.

You might wonder, "What's the big deal, do the fecal test." My mother did a fecal test in her late 70s and it was positive. So she went for a colonoscopy and it was negative. She said, "never again." I think there must be lots of false positives for various reasons and I don't want to go down that road.

Here's what makes it worse: If I don't go along with the HMO and doctor's request, I could be dropped as a patient. I called the doctor's office today and notified them that I'm not going to do the test. The receptionist said she will pass it on to the doctor. So, I'll have to wait and see what happens.

If I get dropped, I'll have to look for another doctor.

Why not do the test? It's just that I have no risk factors and I'm almost 75 anyway.

Any comments/opinions.

Colonoscopies are a much better experience than they were years ago. I had my first one at the age of 60, 10 years after I should of and a fairly large pre-cancerous cyst was found. I have NO history of colon cancer in my family and I'm glad I didn't use that logic as a reason to resist having one. The doc simply looped it and snip... voilà, it was gone. I've had another since with no abnormalities found and due for another soon. I'm no where near as hesitant now as I was before my first. However, having one done and having peace of mind is ultimately your decision to make. Not mine, not anybody else's!

Have you had one in your past?? I've been told every 10 years "if" there aren't any issues found. I'm to have my next one in 2 years! I've always said the prep is worse than the test. I've had 2 colonoscopies and will again when it's time. Don't want to chance it...plus it's said "if" colon cancer or pre-cancer is found, it's the easiest to treat!

Okay, so now that we are on the topic any recommendations for "THOSE" doctors in TV that do that test? Obviously looking for someone with experience so I don't have a problem as a result of "THAT" test.

For once VP I tend to agree with you! "They" are now saying that many of the the tests we routinely were told to take are unneccesary. That fecal test is ridiculous, I'd do another colonoscopy before doing that. I have had colon surgery many years ago and my doc says maybe every 5 years I should have another colonoscopy. Had my last one at age 70, don't think I'll be doing another.

Mom had colon cancer in her eighties so I started going for a colonoscopy in my fifties. Every ten years if your clean but with a history of colon cancer, it's every five years. The prep is the worst part of the procedure, as most people are lulled to sleep during the colonoscopy.

I do it for my own piece of mind. I'd rather catch something early before it's too late. IMHO

My wife recently had her test done and she used Dr. Robert W Barish MD of Gastroenterology Associates at 13940 Hwy 441. (751-4885) I will be using the same doctor when I have mine done.

The following information is strictly based on my past experience and a qualified medical doctor should be consulted with:

- It is recommended that your first test be done at the age of 50.
- If you have no family history with colon cancer, the wait period for the next test may be a recommendation of 10 years if no polyps or other problem are found.
- If there is a family history of cancer, the wait period recommended may be 5 years.
- If a polyp is found, the waiting period may be 3 years.
- And if the equipment malfunctions, which happened to me on my last test, and a full scan wasn't accomplished, the wait period may be recommended at 2 years.

Remember though that this is only based on my experienced and only a qualified medical doctor can properly determine the actual waiting period suggested.

Note: My father-in-law died of colon cancer at the age of 59. His father also died of it at age 80..

I had a colonoscopy recently with Dr. Marianna de Jongue Very pain;ess and the prep was not that bad.
My hsband used Dr. Mathew. Same office.

After posting this thread I found a nice message from my doctor on my answering machine. He called to tell me not to worry about it. He said he loves having me as a patient and looks forward to seeing me again at my next appointment. That's a big relief to me because I thought for sure I'd soon be looking for another doctor. And I really enjoy being his patient.

As far as colon cancer risk I would just like to add something about lifestyle: For me it's not just that there's no family history of colon cancer. I'm eating a special "anti-cancer" diet, and that means I have given up practically all animal protein and all processed foods. So I figure that makes my risk a whole lot less than for those who eat the standard American diet. Diet and exercise definitely plays a big important part and that's why I don't eat processed foods in moderation.

its not the procedure that i would be concered with, its what type of anesthesia they are using, some use a twilight and you are in a comfortable state others use very little drugs and it can be very hard on you, if done right this can be a fifteen minute procedure

I think that your subject matter is incorrect. "Screening for Colon Cancer, when is it needed?".

It seems that you have already made up your mind.

Not sold on fecal blood test.

I think that a colonoscopy is a valid test that is saving many lives. When I had a routine one four years ago they found some cancerous polyps that were removed while I was "under". Had nothng after the procedure to make me feel they "did" anything, no bleeding, no pains, nothing. At my recent one, they found nothing. I must add that I had not one symptom from those polyps.

It must be an informed choice and I don't go to my doctors to tell them what to do. I try to choose doctors who I can trust to guide me to good health decisions. I will go back to Ohio for my next one because we have family there and the endoscopy lab has my records.

As a vegan I understand what you're saying, however our diet :icon_hungry: does not preclude us from standard medical tests.

I welcome any regularly accepted testing to confirm my dietary choice.;)

U are remiss to think otherwise IMO, at your age it will likely be the last time to consider it, just do it.

:agree:

IMHO - To not have this procedure done is taking a risk with your life.

Vince Lombardi, the great football coach died of cancer as he would not let a doctor examine him. I don't want to get graphic.

From The flowers of wit, or a choice collection of bon mots, by Henry Kett, 1814:
...observed the eminent lawyer, "I hesitate not to pronounce, that every man who is his own lawyer, has a fool for a client.

Could also apply to Doctor/Patient relationships.

http://dorrys.com/wp-content/uploads...er-fool-14.jpg

Please consider the fact that while your lifestyle choices have been positive for your health, they likely do not reduce the chances for colon cancer to 0%. It would be a shame for you to have made these changes only to succumb to a disease that is detectable in its early stages and treatable.

I agree that the fecal test for occult blood is almost worthless. The only difficult part of a colonoscopy is the prep, and that is really just an inconvenience for a day. The actual procedure is painless when done under sedation, and it's good to know all is well.

I avoided it as well until I was over 60 and was relieved when all was OK. I will have another one done when it is time.

Excellent post jimbo; concise, to the point and spot on in making the case for the importance of getting the test done! I have seen first hand, and more than once, the heartbreaking affect on someone with colon cancer, and with it leaving me praying I never have to personally experience what I've seen. I do hope you're successful in getting through on the importance of the procedure whereas I have apparently failed in my attempt. Kudos!!! :clap2:

anyone know if bloodtesting or fecal test can find colon cancer?

Blood testing... NO! Fecal test... yes and no! The most accurate method of detecting is a colonoscopy. Here is further reading on these questions:

Colon cancer: Tests and diagnosis - MayoClinic.com

https://www.healthtap.com/#topics/ca...t-colon-cancer

very good info. thanks for posting.

Ecellent posts. Straight to the heart of the matter.

these decisions are personal but keep in mind when one quotes the test is not needed after 75 they are merely telling you that not as many folks get colon cancer after age 75. Note the words "not as many".....after age 75 there will CONTINUE to be colon cancer affected seniors.

Also keep in mind colon cancer is known to be an aggressive, fast growing form of cancer. That is the very reason if one has had polyps removed previously the doctor recommends a colonoscopy every three years until there are two in a row with no polyps. And after age 75 that goes to every 5 years.

You ay be approaching 75 but why do you think you are home free just by reaching that age? What if you already have pre cancerous polyps forming? Until they get to a point in progression where they bleed, there are usually no other symptoms (that is why the fecal test....to detect microscopic blood content, hence an early warning).

The colonoscopy "experience" is very much negatively over stated. The modern methods, prep and anesthesia are significantly less of an imposition than most dental procedures. I have been having a colonoscopy every three years for the past 12 years.....when a bleeding polyp was discovered. And unfortunately I have yet to have two in a row clear. The process or inconvenience is far outweighed by the good news (hopefully).

Thus far on incomplete information you are professing being a winner. Until you get a colonoscopy you really won't know for sure.

The choice is yours to continue to roll the dice.

btk

Excellent post.

Maybe that's why it is under "preventive procedures" that are covered by a medical plan, so it is cost effective. Much easier to have the colonoscopy that to have deal with the treatment after cancer is discovered.

To me, not knowing would drive me crazy. To just assume, it's folly.

It's not without risks. I searched "Colonoscopy-Wikipedia..." Then scrolled down to "Risks"

It is good to be aware of risks, which are listed for every medical item/issue/procedure/etc.

As an example there would be risks listed for taking aspirins. One could hypothesize that since there are many more people who take aspirins than get a colonoscopy, there will be more people potentially harmed taking aspirins than getting a colonoscopy.....doesn't stop anybody from taking aspirins.

Personal decisions need to be as informed as possible. You are in much more danger driving on the highway or your golf cart than you will ever be taking an aspirin OR getting a colonoscopy!!!

btk

thats so true, the benifits most certainly outway the risks.

Thanks everyone, I appreciate your concern.

Here's some information you might find interesting that backs up what I said about diet and exercise.

In 2001 it was stated that there were 19 yearly deaths from colon cancer for every 100,000 population in the U.S.. Now it's down to 17 per 100,000.

I don't have an up-to-date figure for Okinawans but in 2001 it was reported that they had only 8 yearly deaths per 100,000.

Question: Why do so many people have a cavalier attitude toward diet and exercise, yet they take testing very seriously? It seems to me that eventually some form of cancer will get you that you haven't been tested for.

Example: My brother, who was a big candy eater and overweight, was tested yearly for prostate cancer. He caught it early and it was a slow growing cancer, so it wasn't a problem. However, within a short period of time (1 to 2 years) he discovered he had pancreatic cancer and it had spread everywhere. (It was not a result of having prostate cancer.)

If you are among the (name the number) that die of colon cancer, you still are dead.

You are the one who asked the question about tests. You had already decided not to have a colonoscopy. There are many kinds of cancer and some very unfortunate people have more than one.

A person concerned with keeping himself healthy would likely be safer having a colonoscopy. All it is is a visual look at your innards. What you can't see can hurt you.

But you have already decided not to have the test. I think we have your answer.

It isn't any fun to drink all that stuff but in the END your insides will be shiny clean. And poof, you are asleep and poof you are awake and then you feel good for knowing what is happening in there.

I do anyway. We do a lot of things not only for ourselves but for the other people in our world who love us.

Agree to Disagree Respectfully
 

I agree to disagree respectfully in the highlighted area of your post.

As a type 2 diabetic, I eat in moderation and exercise vigorously three times a week. As a doctor once said to me, "you are digustingly healthy". I take my health seriously as I am not getting it back once it's gone.

BTW - a routine test showed my diabetes in it's early stage and was controlled by eating healthy and exercise.

I take precautionary test because it is a much preferred option than if I was to make believe that nothing bad was to occur. I would rather deal with something when it's in the early stages than to deal with it when it's full blown and past the point of being controlled. I also want to know and not wonder if something is wrong. Not knowing is the worst of all scenarios.

I believe the famous words of Abbott and Costello when put in front of a firing squad and asked if the had any last wishes.

" I want to die of old age". :jester:

What's the rush, "death is forever, at least physically".

Time to climb down from my soapbox. :smiley:

Just do it !
 

Just for your peace of mind , get the colonoscopy and be done with it,,,Painless and the best sleep you will ever have !

You have to do what you feel comfortable with. My wife was diagnosed with colon cancer at 64. No history, great condition, non-smoking, healthy diet, found on a routine colonoscopy. 64 is not that far from 70, we are looking at a lot more good years. If she had waited docs say she most likely would not be here now. It is a pretty easy procedure that can save your life. Still of course it is up to you, as Dirty Harry would say " are you feeling lucky,well are you"
Take care.

Some of you have criticized Wikipedia but didn't have any better information and didn't claim that the information I provided was false. Wikipedia was merely giving information from reported studies and I have no reason to believe the information is inacurate.

I reviewed my doctor's message and he said the decision to get any test is totally up to the patient.

Sure, you can look at it that way. On the other hand, you could look at it as:
Out of 100,000 people, 999,800 had colonoscopies without serious complications. Or out of 100,000 people, 999,994 of them had colonoscopies and survived.

One of the problems with those figures is that they don't detail the overall health situation of those undergoing the procedure. What underlying conditions may have contributed to the outcome? What was the age range of those who suffered poor outcomes? You could go on and on distilling the data to get a reasonable idea of the risk for yourself undergoing the procedure.

Because of its open structure, wickipedia is not a resource I would consider without reservations.

Why go to a medical doctor if you think you know more than they do about the benefits-versus-risks of the tests/procedures they recommend?

Why go to a medical doctor if you think they order tests/procedures only to grub more money into their own coffers, and not to prevent or alleviate pain and suffering?

Why go to a doctor if you've already decided you don't trust or don't need anything he/she offers for prevention, diagnostics and treatment????

I am a firm believer in taking advantage of all medical tests available, when needed, or medically suggested.

My daughter, age 39, was having some minor gastrological discomfort, and her Dr. suggested an early colonoscopy, just to be safe. She is a very healthy, non-smoking, non-drinking practicing dietician. She eats very little meat, and is well within her weight guidelines, (unlike her mother! ) She lives down the street from the YMCA, and is there daily.
During her colonoscopy, 2 polyps were found, removed,and it was determined they were pre-cancerous. Now she will repeat her test every 3 years. By all statistics, she was not a candidate for a colonoscopy, but I count myself very blessed that she had one and will continue to have them as needed.
Diet and exercise are incredibly important, but they don't ensure you will never get any kind of illness, and if an illness is preventable, why not do all that you can to prevent it?

Sure, you can look at it that way if you choose to. That's the way I choose to look at colon cancer. Of all my close family members (grandparents, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins, I don't know of one who had colon cancer. In my lifetime I only have known one person who had colon cancer and he was my sister's father-in-law. And he was a butcher who liked to nibble on raw meat. So there was a reason for it.

Yes, exactly! And you could apply the same reasoning to those who get colon cancer. "....they don't detail the overall health situation of those...." who get colon cancer. "What underlying conditions may have contributed to the outcome?" People will say, "I knew someone who ate a healthy diet and still had precancerous polyps. Yes, in their opinion they were eating a healthy diet, but it's only their opinion. The overwelming majority people don't eat healthy diets but many of them think they do, or will say that they do (partly because of ignorance and partly because of selective memory).

Well, at least it's something. It's more information than anyone else has offered.

It's already been established that doctors recommend testing equally to everyone in order to protect themselves from potential lawsuits. Someone may go to a doctor and claim to be eating a healthy diet and getting lots of exercise. They might even claim there's no family history when there is. Is the doctor supposed to believe it and tell the person they don't need to be tested, thereby risking future lawsuits? So it's well established that they can't afford to pick and choose who needs testing. This is where a well informed patient is needed to figure things out and make his own decision.

Why was this thread started at all?

I would like to start one that says don't neglect to have a colonoscopy starting at 50 no matter WHO you are and at 40 if you have familial colon cancer.

You cannot live a lifestyle that guarantees that you will not get cancer.

Colon cancer is one at least that can be screened for and in most cases stopped.

Wicky is more trustworthy then Doctors? :ohdear:

My 2 cents
 

I am a fairly wimpy/wussy person. My father who is 82, has had polyps removed from his colon 3 times in the past 20 years. When I turned 50, I told myself "you got to get in to do this." I dilly dallyed for two years. My friend who is 6 months younger than me beat me to having a colonoscopy 5 months ago.

My colonoscopy was today. I did the two day prep - drinking some stuff last night around 6:00, and the rest early this morning around 6:15 am. The prep work was not great, but better than I thought it would be -- the hardest part was drinking 48 ounces of liquid (the prep solution plus water) in 1 hour. The procedure itself is nothing. Once the technician put the IV in my arm, I went to sleep right away. From the time my dad and I got to the hospital to leaving the hospital was just over 3 hours. In fact I drove the 6 miles home from the hospital -- that is how good I felt leaving the hospital. Glad I had finally had it done. I don't need another colonoscopy for 5 yrs. because of my dad's history of polyps. Just my 2 cents.

Exactly. :agree: Spot on as usual. :smiley:

You don't on Supermans cape.

You don't spit in the wind.

You don't get a colonoscopy.

And your messin around with your life.

OK. I won't quit my day job.