Colon Cancer Screening in Illinois
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Find a ProviderWhat is a screening for colon cancer?
Colorectal cancer ranks as the third most commonly diagnosed cancer yet remains one of the most preventable types. The large intestine, comprising the colon and rectum, functions to absorb water and some nutrients from digested food and stores solid waste until it is expelled.
A colon cancer screening involves checking for polyps and cancerous growths on the inner wall of the colon and rectum, typically in individuals who show no gastrointestinal symptoms. While polyps are generally noncancerous, they have the potential to turn cancerous over time. Early detection and removal of these polyps and any malignant tumors are crucial in preventing the severe complications and fatalities associated with colon cancer.
At GI Alliance of Illinois, our board-certified gastroenterologists are committed to the early detection of colon cancer. We recommend that all patients begin routine screenings at age 45. To schedule a screening at one of our locations in Chicago, Peoria, Normal, IL, and beyond, please contact your nearest GI Alliance of Illinois office.
What are the benefits of a colon cancer screening?
Routine screenings for colon and rectal cancer are crucial for maintaining both general and gastrointestinal health. While various strategies like stool testing are available, a colonoscopy remains the only method that can actively prevent colorectal cancer by allowing for the direct removal of polyps. The benefits of colorectal cancer screenings include:
- They can be life-saving examinations
- They have the potential to detect colon or rectal cancer early
- They allow for the identification and removal of polyps in the colon and rectum
- They can potentially prevent the development of colon cancer
- They can detect other gastrointestinal issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease
Colon cancer may not exhibit signs or symptoms until it has progressed significantly. Regular screenings enable your doctor to identify any issues or conditions at the earliest stage possible.
Are there colon cancer screening options?
People should consult with their gastroenterologist to determine the appropriate timing and type of screening tests for colon cancer. The following are some of the tests that may be used:
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Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: This test involves the use of a sigmoidoscope, a finger-sized tube with a camera, to examine the inside of the rectum and lower colon. It allows for the visualization of the inner walls on a monitor, biopsy of polyps or tumors, and removal of some polyps. To view the entire colon and remove all polyps or tumors, a full colonoscopy is necessary. Although generally safe, there is a small risk of bowel tear, bleeding, and infection.
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Colonoscopy: Similar to a sigmoidoscope but longer, a colonoscope examines the entire colon. Inserted through the rectum, it allows the doctor to view images of the colon on a monitor and use special tools to take biopsies and remove polyps. Sedation is typically required, and there are small risks of complications such as bowel tears, bleeding, or infection. It is the only strategy that provides a complete preventative measure against colorectal cancer.
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Virtual Colonoscopy: Also known as a CT colonography, this test involves lying on a CT scanner table to obtain cross-sectional images of the colon. It is non-invasive and does not require sedation. However, if abnormalities are detected, a conventional colonoscopy is necessary to remove any polyps or tumors.
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Double-Contrast Barium Enema: During this procedure, a small tube is inserted into the rectum to administer barium sulfate and air into the colon, which outlines the colon's walls. X-ray images are then taken to detect abnormalities. If abnormalities are found, a colonoscopy is required to remove polyps or tumors.
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Fecal Tests: These tests are conducted using a stool sample and are completely safe. They include:
- Fecal Occult Blood Tests (FOBT): These tests detect hidden blood in the stool via a chemical reaction.
- Fecal Immunochemical Tests (FIT): Blood is detected through a specific immunochemical reaction to a protein in the blood.
- Stool DNA Tests: These tests look for abnormal DNA from cancerous outgrowths or polyps in the stool.
Fecal tests may suggest gastrointestinal abnormalities but do not provide confirmatory results. If these tests return positive results, indicating the possible presence of cancer, a follow-up colonoscopy is recommended.
Who might be at risk for colon cancer?
Individuals who may need regular colon cancer screenings include:
- People over 45 years of age
- Individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), which could leave polyps to form in the colon and rectum, increasing the likelihood of developing cancer
- People who have had colon cancer previously
- Women with a history of breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer
- People with close family members (parents, siblings, or children) who have or had colon cancer
- Individuals with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- People leading a sedentary lifestyle, with unhealthy eating habits, or who smoke
Reserve your colon cancer screening today
Regular screenings can detect and prevent colon cancer in its early stages. If you are over 45 or have other risk factors for colon cancer, consider scheduling your screenings at your local GI Alliance of Illinois location. GI Alliance of Illinois is a physician-led network of gastroenterologists committed to a patient-first approach, utilizing cutting-edge technology to promote digestive health. To find out more about colon cancer screenings and how they can help you, contact your nearest location in Chicago or the surrounding areas.
Colon Cancer Screening FAQs
Why is having colon cancer screenings important?
Colon cancer commonly arises from irregular growths in the large intestine (colon) or rectum, or polyps. During a colonoscopy exam, these premalignant growths can be excised to help minimize the risk of and potentially even prevent this cancer from occurring. Regular screenings for colorectal cancer can also allow doctors to identify cancer that has already developed. When colon or rectal cancer is diagnosed early, it may be easier to address.
At what age should I begin having colon cancer screenings?
People who are at average risk should begin periodic screenings for colon cancer at 45. Those who carry a greater risk may need to begin screenings earlier. Your GI specialist can help you ascertain when you should start your colon cancer screenings.
How often should I undergo a colon cancer screening?
The timeframes in which people should have colorectal cancer exams can depend on the type of exam being conducted. In general, 45 years old and over should undergo a colonoscopy exam every ten years when they have an average risk of developing colon cancer and experience normal colonoscopy results. Individuals who have a significantly high risk are advised to undergo colonoscopy exams at least once every five years. Please contact your gastrointestinal doctor to determine how frequently you should undergo a colon cancer screening.
How should I prep for my colon cancer screening?
The preparatory instructions for a colon cancer screening will depend on the form of screening scheduled. When having a colonoscopy, specific instructions on how to prepare will be given to you by your GI team before your scheduled exam to clear out your bowel. Your GI specialist may also give you specific directions to follow in the days leading up to your screening. It is imperative to abide by your gastroenterologist's directions to help ensure they can detect any areas of concern when performing your colorectal cancer screening.
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Dr. Janda is an excellent doctor and wonderful person. He has treated my mom, aunt, dad and I for years. He helped my aunt overcome colon cancer and was a great support, and skillful and knowledgeable physician during my dad’s battle with cancer. Dr. Janda is personable, kind and genuinely cares for the well being of his patients. He even came to the office on a Saturday when no one else was there to see me and some other patients in need. I highly recommend Dr. Janda!!
Dr. Rjesh Pillai is an excellent highly educated doctor that has treated me for years and during my yearly checkup caught early stage Colon cancer. He also has treated me for Celiac for years. I value his knowledge and caring manner.
Dr Penn is passionate about eradicating colon cancer. High energy and explains everything in a way that anyone can understand.
I've had 5 colonoscopy's since age 42 after my dad died of colon cancer. Dr. Stinneford has performed every one. Will continue with him until he retires. 👍
Dr Victor and his staff have taken care of me for 12 years. I was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2010 and I was only 38. Dr Victor was there for me and always remembers that day - his staff demonstrated empathy for me and my family. Dr. Victor answers my concerns and his staff always ensures I am comfortable - they are all very easy to talk to. I appreciate each of them!!
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