1.) What is cancer screening?

Screening is when a test is used to look for a disease before there are any symptoms. Cancer screening tests, including those for colorectal cancer, are effective when they can detect disease early. Detecting disease early can lead to more effective treatment. (Diagnostic tests are used when a person has symptoms and are intended to find out what is causing the symptoms.)

 

2.) Why should I get screened for colorectal cancer?

Screening for colorectal cancer saves lives. Colorectal cancers almost always develop from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can find polyps, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests also can find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best and the chance for a full recovery is very high. Having regular screening tests beginning at age 50 could save your life.

 

3.) Is colorectal cancer screening covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans help pay for colorectal cancer screening tests for people aged 50 or older. Many plans also help pay for screening tests for people younger than 50 who are at increased risk for colorectal cancer. Check with your health insurance provider to determine your colorectal cancer screening benefits.

 

4.) Does fiber play a protective role in colorectal cancer?

The question of whether fiber plays a protective role against colorectal cancer has become quite controversial. Early studies suggested that fiber is indeed protective, whereas more recent and highly publicized studies find no protective effect. Pending additional studies that may resolve this controversy, a high fiber diet is recommended because of its overall nutritional value and because it promotes good bowel function. Furthermore, fiber is also beneficial for individuals with diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and a variety of other medical conditions.

 

5.) Is there a correlation between the length of your colon and colon cancer?

There is no known correlation with the length of the colon and colon cancer. Cancer is at least as common in men as women, but women tend to have longer colons.