Many people who are aware of their family’s history of colon cancer are afraid of evaluating their own risk for the disease. Others may be completely unaware that a relative was diagnosed with colon cancer or had pre-cancerous polyps. While colon cancer might not be the most appealing topic for family conversation, it is crucial for people to discuss the incidence of the disease, as doing so could potentially save a life. At the Gastroenterology Institute of Southern California, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Berookim is dedicated to colon cancer awareness and prevention.
Colon Cancer Prevention
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States, with approximately 150,000 new cases occurring annually. While this is certainly a concerning statistic, colon cancer is actually highly treatable if caught early.
One of the best ways to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer, or to detect the disease in its earliest stage, is to have a colonoscopy. This procedure is used to examine the inner lining of the colon for pre-cancerous tissue, known as polyps. If left untreated, some polyps may become cancerous. A colonoscopy allows a gastroenterologist to both check for polyp formation and remove pre-cancerous tissue to help prevent colon cancer.
Why a Family History of Colon Health Matters
If you have a family history of colon cancer, you are at a higher risk for the disease. In fact, it is estimated that having an immediate family member diagnosed with colon cancer, or even polyps, doubles your risk. Talking with your family members about colon health can identify risk factors, giving you the opportunity to take the steps necessary to minimize your chance of developing the disease.
We recommend that adults receive their first colonoscopy screening at the age of 50. However, anyone with a family history of colon cancer should begin routine colonoscopy screenings at least 10 years prior to the age the family member was diagnosed. African Americans, who as a population have a higher risk for colon cancer, should receive their first colonoscopy at the age of 45. Consistent colonoscopy screenings are critical, because it often takes approximately ten years for pre-cancerous polyps to develop into colon cancer. Dr. Berookim encourages repeat colonoscopy screening every 10 years, or even more frequently depending on a patient’s colon cancer history.
Who Should I Ask About My Family History?
Family members who are most likely to affect your risk of developing colon cancer are first-degree relatives (parents, siblings, and children). Non-immediate family members (aunts, uncles, or grandparents) who have a history of colon cancer or polyps may also put you at risk. Any family member with a history of a different cancer of the digestive system, such as stomach cancer, can also increase your risk of colon cancer. The more information you gain from family members about their colon health, the better prepared you are to understand your risk and to take action to help reduce the chance of developing colon cancer.
Contact Dr. Berookim
Understanding your risk of developing colon cancer is the first step towards colorectal cancer prevention. To learn more about colorectal cancer and screening procedures, please call Dr. Berookim at 310.271.1122 or fill out our online Request an Appointment form.