Colorectal Cancer Screening Market, also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, or rectal cancer, is a cancer that develops from the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. It is one of the most common cancers in both men and women and has become increasing prevalent in recent decades. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Over 50,000 people die from the disease each year.
Risk Factors and Symptoms
There are certain risk factors that can increase a person’s chances of developing colorectal cancer including older age, family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, lifestyle factors like poor diet and lack of physical activity. Some common symptoms of colorectal cancer include changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation or stool consistency, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, abdominal discomfort like cramps, gas or pain and unexplained weight loss. However, many people with early or pre-cancerous polyps experience no symptoms at all. This is why screening is so important, especially for those at higher risk.
Importance of Screening
Colorectal cancer screening aims to find pre-cancerous polyps or growths in the colon and rectum that can be removed before turning cancerous. Screening also aims to detect cancer at an early stage when it is smaller and highly treatable. According to the American Cancer Society, screening and polyp removal can prevent up to 80% of colorectal cancers from ever developing. Regular screening is recommended for men and women of average risk beginning at age 45. For those at higher risk due to family history or other factors, screening may begin earlier. The main screening options include:
– Guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT): This test checks for hidden blood in the stool, which could indicate early-stage colorectal cancer or polyps. This test must be done annually.
– Fecal immunochemical test (FIT): Similar to gFOBT but uses antibodies instead of guaiac to detect blood in the stool. It is more accurate than gFOBT. Can be done annually.
– Flexible sigmoidoscopy: A flexible lighted tube is inserted into the rectum and lower colon to check for polyps or cancer. This test is usually done every 5 years.
– Colonoscopy: This test uses a longer flexible tube that allows visual examination of the entire colon. Small polyps can be removed during the procedure. It is recommended every 10 years.
– CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy): Special imaging techniques like CT scans are used to examine the colon and rectum. This test may be an option every 5 years for those unable or unwilling to undergo standard colonoscopy.
– Stool DNA test: This relatively new screening option involves checking stool samples for certain abnormal DNA changes that may indicate cancer or advanced polyp presence. Recommended interval varies.
Improving Screening Rates Through Education and Awareness
Despite strong evidence that screening saves lives, about 1 in 3 adults aged 50 years or older are not up to date with Colorectal Cancer Screening Market according to current guidelines. Some key reasons for low screening rates include lack of awareness about risks and need for screening, embarrassment or fear about the screening tests, and not having a primary doctor that recommends screening. This is where public education programs and awareness campaigns play a vital role.
Government agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and the American Cancer Society are leading efforts to increase screening rates. They provide free information materials on risks, signs & symptoms, available tests, recommended screening schedules based on age and risk factors. Healthcare providers are also encouraged to counsel all patients on screening options and help address any fears or concerns. Many primary care clinics set up reminder systems and outreach programs to ensure patients know when they are due for screening. Workplace wellness programs also educate employees.
Organizations like Colorectal Cancer Coalition hold community discussions and screening events across the country. During Colon Cancer Awareness month each March, mass media campaigns through television, radio and social media spread awareness messages. Celebrity spokespeople and cancer survivors also share their stories to reduce stigma and encourage others to get screened. All these initiatives aim to normalize colorectal screening as just another important preventive healthcare task like breast or cervical cancer screening.
Conclusion
In conclusion, colorectal cancer remains a serious health threat. However, regular screening offers the best chance at detecting pre-cancerous polyps or cancer at the earliest stages when treatment is highly effective. Education programs are continuously working to improve public understanding about risks and importance of screening to help more people get tested according to guidelines. By increasing screening rates especially in at-risk communities, we can significantly reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality in the coming years. A little preventive action through screening could save your life or the lives of your loved ones from this potentially deadly yet preventable disease.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
