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Tests for Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum become abnormal and divide uncontrollably, forming a malignant mass called a tumor, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Colorectal cancer cells may attack and destroy surrounding tissue and move to other areas of the body. The American Cancer Society says the best way to prevent colorectal cancer is with regular screenings. Colorectal tests can also help detect cancer in its earliest stages when it has a greater chance of being cured.

  1. Statistics And Risks

    • The NCI says colorectal cancer is the third most common type of non-skin cancer and is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States after lung cancer. An estimated 145,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer annually and nearly 50,000 people die from the disease.

      Certain risk factors are associated with colorectal cancer. Most people who develop the disease are older than age 50. You are at a higher risk for colorectal cancer if a close relative (parents, siblings of children) has had the disease.

    Colonoscopy And Virtual Colonoscopy

    • During a colonoscopy, the rectum and entire colon are examined using a lighted instrument called a colonoscope. This invasive procedure typically requires a mild sedation. A colonoscope allows your doctor to detect precancerous and cancerous polyps that can be removed and biopsied. A colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years.

      A virtual colonoscopy uses special computerized X-ray equipment to produce pictures of the colon and rectum. It is less invasive than traditional colonoscopy but still allows the doctor to see the rectum and the entire colon. It is recommended every five years.

      A thorough cleansing of the colon is necessary before standard or virtual colonoscopies are conducted.

    Fecal Occult Blood Test and Digital Rectal Exam

    • A FOBT looks for concealed blood in the stool. The NCI recommends this test be performed every one to two years beginning at age 50. The NCI says although FOBT has been shown to help reduce colorectal cancer deaths by 15 percent to 33 percent it fails to detect most polyps and some cancers.

      A DRE is often part of a regular physical examination. Your doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger inside the rectum to feel for abnormal areas. DRE is restricted to the lower part of the rectum.

    Sigmoidioscopy

    • During this test your doctor examines the rectum and lower colon with a lighted instrument called a sigmoidoscope. Precancerous and cancerous growths can be detected and removed or biopsied.

      The NCI says studies indicate that regular screening with sigmoidoscopy after age 50 can help lower the number of deaths from colorectal cancer. This test is recommended every five years.

    Double Contrast Barium Enema

    • A double contrast barium enema involves multiple X-rays of the entire colon and rectum after the patient is given an enema with a barium solution and air is inserted into the colon. The barium and air work together to outline the colon and rectum on the X-rays.

      The NCI says DCBE may miss smaller polyps and cancers. This procedure is recommended every five years.

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