Colorectal Cancer Test

Recent Colorectal Cancer Test Posts
Frequent and ongoing colorectal cancer tests such as post-treatment monitoring is the best way to identify recurrence of colorectal cancer because it gives give the physician more effective options for treatment when the cancer is still in its early stages. One test often recommended for patients of the age of 50 or above is called a colonoscopy, a procedure in a physicians office or clinic that involves inserting a small camera into the intestinal tract to search for potential dangerous polyps.

Other non-invasive tests for cancer are also available in the U.S. For example, there is the Fecal Occult Blood Test, which is simply the testing of blood in stool. Next, a procedure called a sigmoidoscopy, which involves examining the rectum and lower colon with a lighted instrument, There are also variations on the Colonoscopy, such as a Virtual Colonoscopy, and the Double Contrast Barium Enema. Sometimes, a doctor can feel if polyps have developed by the feeling of the stomach area.

Each colorectal cancer test or procedure has its pros and cons, although each procedure is generally low risk to the patient. Some of the popular colorectal cancer tests are uncomfortable, but not painful. One side effect that has been reported, though unusual, is slight tearing or bleeding of the colon, when being tested during the Sigmoidscopy or Colonoscopy.

Colorectal cancer testing is extremely important for those with a personal or family history of cancer and for those over the age of fifty. Colorectal cancer tests should not be put off, even if one feels relatively healthy and has noticed no pains or discomfort in his colon area. The early detection of polyps and cancer cells is the key to successfully being cancer free in the long term.

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