Colon Cancer Screenings And Recommended Tests for Seniors 50 and Over

If you are over 50 years old its very important that you get screened for colon cancer. However, its up to you and your personal physician what tests you need done and how often they should be performed. Some of the latest tests by the U.S. Preventative Service Task Force, conclude that the top 3 methods used when being screened for colon cancer are equally effective, and they do not recommended one over the other. However, they do stress that using some form of testing every 5 years or so after you turn age 50 is extremely important.

A colonoscopy is recommended for seniors over age 50 every 10 years. This procedure explores the entire colon via a tiny camera mounted on several feet of tubing that is inserted into the colon through the rectum. The patient is sedated so there is no pain only a small amount of discomfort. During this procedure there is a very small risk of perforation.

A Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is recommended every 5 years for those over 50. These tests are also supplemented by giving stool samples at certain intervals. While the colonoscopy screens the entire colon, the Sigmoidoscopy only checks the last 2 feet of the intestine. Sedation is not required during this test and the risk of perforation is slight.

A High Sensitivity Fecal Blood Test is recommended once a year when you are over 50. In this test, the patient prepares the stool samples, which are then analyzed for microscopic traces of blood. This tests has been known to give false results. The USPSTF has recommended against screening for cancer for those seniors who are over age 75. The benefits of the testing are small compared to the risks when done on patients who are 75 and older.

They also recommended that patients stop screening at all after they turn age 85, however, screening for colon cancer is strongly recommended for those who are 50 to 75. Currently only about half of Americans are screened for colon cancer and experts stress that early detection is very important in the treatment of colon cancer. If you're interested in getting more information on colon cancer and it's prevention visit www.uspstf.com