Colon cancer is a major cause of mortality, but early detection offers a high chance of cure. Prevention is divided into healthy habits (primary prevention) and screening based on individual risk (secondary prevention).
When to start getting checked?
For people with no family history, between 45 and 50 years old, to detect precursor polyps. The key is detection in asymptomatic patients.
Detection methods: They include the affordable fecal occult blood test, the more specific FIT test, stool DNA testing, colon enema and colonoscopy, considered the best option for its ability to visualize, take biopsies and remove polyps. Virtual colonoscopy is an imaging alternative that, if it detects something, requires a colonoscopy.
In the event of a positive result: A colonoscopy is always required to evaluate and treat any findings. Subsequent follow-up will depend on the initial results.
Warning symptoms (although prevention is without symptoms):
Rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, thin stools, persistent abdominal pain or anemia should motivate a medical consultation.
Family risk: A history of colon cancer or polyps in the family means starting prevention with colonoscopies at an earlier age (10 years before the family member’s diagnosis or at age 40). Key message: Colonoscopy is the most effective tool for preventing colon cancer by allowing the identification and removal of precancerous lesions. Medical consultation and awareness of the risks are essential.
