Screening Tools for Detecting Colorectal Cancer
An FOBT is a simple chemical test that can detect hidden blood in the stool, which may be a symptom of colorectal cancer. Patients can perform this test in the privacy of their own home by using a small stick from a test kit to apply to a test card a thin layer of stool from three consecutive bowel movements. After the samples have been collected, the patient sends the test card to the colorectal surgeon's office where it is checked for hidden blood. If blood is found, the colorectal surgeon will probably recommend a follow up colonoscopy.
Recommended testing: Beginning at age 40, all adults should have an FOBT once every year.
Flexible SigmoidoscopyA flexible sigmoidoscopy is a visual examination of the rectum and lower portion of the colon, where most colorectal polyps and cancers occur. To perform the test, a colorectal surgeon inserts a thin flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end into the rectum and up into the colon to look for abnormalities or polyps. Although tissue samples and polyps can be removed with the endoscope, a follow-up colonoscopy generally is necessary if polyps or other abnormalities are found. Flexible sigmoidoscopy exams usually are performed in a hospital or doctor's office, and the patient may be given some light sedation. Although some discomfort is probable, a flexible sigmoidoscopy should not be painful.
Recommended testing: Beginning at age 50, a flexible sigmoidoscopy should be conducted every 5 years.
Double-contrast Barium Enema (DCBE) or Barium X-rayThe DCBE is an x-ray examination of the rectum and entire colon performed in a hospital or clinic. With this procedure, the colorectal surgeon gives the patient an enema containing white dye or barium followed by an injection of air. The barium outlines the intestine and enables the surgeon to take x-rays of the lower intestine.
Recommended testing: Beginning at age 50, all adults should have a DCBE once every 5-10 years.
ColonoscopyA colonoscopy is a visual examination of the rectum and entire colon, performed by a colorectal surgeon in a hospital or clinic. This exam is similar to the flexible sigmoidoscopy, except that the thin tube is inserted into the rectum and through the entire length of the colon. If polyps are found, they can be removed during this procedure. Because this exam is more invasive than the flexible sigmoidoscopy, a colorectal surgeon will sedate the patient before performing the procedure. The bowel must be completely empty for this visual examination, so patients must adhere to a clear liquid diet for 1-2 days prior to the test. During that time, patients also must cleanse their colon by drinking a purifying solution.
Recommended testing: A colonoscopy is considered a follow-up exam that is performed when abnormalities are found during an FOBT, flexible sigmoidoscopy, or barium x-ray. Generally, colonoscopies are performed once every 10 years on adults 50 years and older.
Digital Rectal ExaminationThis is an examination where the colorectal surgeon inserts a finger (digit) covered with a lubricated glove into the rectum to feel for abnormalities. It is a simple test that is not painful and can detect many rectal cancers.
Recommended testing: Beginning at age 40, all adults should have a digital rectal exam once every year.
About the American Society of Colon and Rectal SurgeonsMarch is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) encourages you to find out if you should be screened for colorectal cancer. For more information on colorectal cancer screening, prevention, and treatment or to locate a colorectal cancer surgeon near you, visit the ASCRS web site at www.fascrs.org.
Contact: ASCRS
(847) 290-9184
media@fascrs.org