Colon cancer screening involves tests to detect early signs of colon cancer or its precursors, such as polyps, which can develop into cancer over time. Screening is important because it can catch cancer in its early stages, when it is more treatable, or identify abnormal growths that can be removed before they become cancerous. There are various methods of screening, including fecal tests and visual examinations such as colonoscopy.
General Recommendations
The general recommendations for colon cancer screening in Canada are as follows:
1. Age: Screening is recommended for individuals starting at age 50 for those at average risk of colon cancer.
2. Frequency:
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Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This tests check for hidden blood in the stool and are usually done every 2 years.
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Colonoscopy: For individuals with a higher risk (e.g., family history of colon cancer or polyps), or after a positive stool test, a colonoscopy may be recommended every 10 years starting at age 50 or earlier if there's a known family history or genetic predisposition.
3. High-risk groups:
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Family history: Individuals with a close family member (parent or sibling) who had colon cancer or large polyps are at increased risk. Screening may begin earlier, often at age 40 or 10 years younger than the age of diagnosis of the relative.
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Genetic conditions: People with conditions like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) should begin screening much earlier, often before age 25, and may need more frequent testing.
Red flags like changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, or unexplained weight loss should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Colonoscopy Information for Patients
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inside of your colon (large intestine) and rectum. A thin, flexible tube with a camera (called a colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum to view the colon lining. Colonoscopies help detect problems like polyps, tumors, inflammation, or bleeding
Why Do I need a Colonoscopy?
Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to:
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Screen for colon cancer (especially if you're over 50 or have a family history)
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Investigate symptoms like unexplained abdominal pain, blood in stool, or changes in bowel habits
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Remove abnormal growths or take biopsies of suspicious tissue
Preparing for the Colonoscopy
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful procedure. A clean colon allows the doctor to see the walls clearly. It is very importation to follow to instructions to clean out your large bowel for the colonoscopy. A poor bowel preparation increases the risk of missing significant problems and increases the risk of complication. A poor bowel preparation can results in cancellation of your colonoscopy and having the test repeated.
1. Diet Restrictions:
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4 days before: You may be asked to avoid certain foods (such as seeds, nuts, and fiber-rich foods).
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Day before the procedure:
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Follow a clear liquid diet only (broth, water, clear juices, tea, coffee without cream, popsicles, etc.).
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Avoid red, blue, or purple liquids as they can interfere with the exam.
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No solid food is allowed the day before the procedure.
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2. Laxatives:
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You will be instructed to purchase a laxative or cleansing solution (e.g., Colyte or Pico-Salax with Dulcolax) to help clear out your intestines.
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You’ll need to drink the prescribed solution the night before the procedure and/or the morning of the procedure, depending on the scheduled time of your colonoscopy
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Stay close to a bathroom during this preparation phase as the laxative will cause frequent, watery bowel movements.
3. Medications:
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Please contact the physician’s office for additional instructions for blood thinners or diabetic medications.
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Stop taking iron pills 7 days before your colonoscopy
What to Expect on the Day of the Colonoscopy
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Arrival: Arrive at the clinic/hospital as instructed (usually 1-2 hours before your procedure).
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Sedation: You will be given a sedative through an IV to make you relaxed and comfortable. Some people fall asleep during the procedure.
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Procedure:
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You will lie on your side during the procedure.
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The colonoscope will be gently inserted into your rectum and guided through the colon.
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The procedure typically lasts 20-30 minutes.
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You may experience mild cramping or bloating during or after the procedure, but these feelings usually subside soon.
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Departure: you must not drive yourself home after the procedure. You are not allowed to drive until the day after your procedure if you have received sedation. Please arrange a ride home with someone.
Risks of Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is generally safe, but as with any medical procedure, there are risks:
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Perforation: A small tear in the colon or rectum (rare, but serious).
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Bleeding: Especially if polyps or tissue samples are removed.
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Infection: Uncommon, but possible.
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Reaction to Sedation: You may feel groggy after the procedure, but it should wear off within a few hours.
After the Colonoscopy
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Recovery: You will be monitored for a short time as the sedation wears off. You’ll need someone to drive you home, as you cannot drive for at least 24 hours after receiving sedation.
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Eating & Drinking: You can usually resume normal eating and drinking after the procedure, but follow any specific instructions from your doctor.
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Results: You may receive initial results right after the procedure. If polyps were removed or biopsies were taken, results will be available in a few days.
Post-Procedure Care
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Mild Discomfort: Some patients may feel bloating, gas, or mild cramping after the procedure. This should improve quickly.
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Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day.
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Notify Your Doctor if You Experience:
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Severe abdominal pain
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Persistent or heavy bleeding
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Fever or chills
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We advise not to travel for 2 weeks after the colonoscopy
Contact Information
If you have any questions or concerns before the procedure, please contact our office.