Our colon plays a vital role as the last part of the digestive system. This organ is also known as the large intestine and serves to remove any water and absorbable nutrients from food as it is transported toward the rectum. The complex function utilizes over 700 types of bacteria which make up the gut flora to collect nutrients prior to discharge from the body.
The American Cancer Society recommends both men and women undergo colonoscopy every ten years, beginning at age 50. Colonoscopies are detailed examinations of the colon which allow gastroenterologists to find anomalies such as polyps which can be cancerous. Colorectal cancer starts from adenomatous, hyperplastic or inflammatory polyps, and can spread to other regions of the body when not treated.
While the lifetime risk for developing colorectal cancer is more prevalent in men at 4.7%, women are only slightly less at risk at 4.4%, meaning it is important for both genders to receive examinations. Colonoscopy screenings allow for examination of the colon and enable the gastroenterologist to remove polyps if they are found. If it is determined that additional evaluation is required, a biopsy will be taken which allows doctors to conduct laboratory analysis to rule out any suspicions. Colonoscopy is a safe and pain-free procedure which is vital to health and most importantly, saves lives.
If you would like to learn more about colonoscopy and review frequently asked questions, please visit our website or call our team at (734) MY-COLON.
Sources
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/colonandrectumcancer/index
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/colonandrectumcancer/detailedguide/colorectal-cancer-key-statistics