Common Misconceptions:
1
Myth: Colon cancer is a disease that affects only Caucasian males.
Truth:
Colon cancer affects individuals regardless of race or sex. In 2007, the American Cancer Society estimates, 55,290 men and 57,050 women will be diagnosed with colon cancer. About equal numbers will die from the disease: 52,000 Americans altogether. In addition, every year, colon cancer takes the lives of nearly as many women as ovarian, cervical and uterine cancers combined.
2
Myth: Only people with a family history of colon cancer get it.
Truth:
Almost 75% of colon cancer cases have no prior family history and most have no symptoms. A family history just means you need to start your preventive colon cancer screenings earlier at age 40 instead of at age 50.
3
Myth: I don't have any symptoms, so I must not have colon cancer.
Truth:
It has been said that one of the most common symptoms of colon cancer is no symptoms at all. In its early stages, colon cancer generally has no symptom and gives no warning. Later in the cancer's development, symptoms such as stool changes, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss can all signal colon cancer. But once these symptoms begin to develop, it may be a sign of more advanced disease which carries reduced survival rates.
4
Myth: Preparation for a colonoscopy is difficult.
Truth:
Preparing for a colonoscopy involves cleaning the colon with the help of fasting paired with prescription and over-the-counter laxatives. Ask your pharmacist about your options. The preparation can be inconvenient, but it is not difficult or painful.
5
Myth: Colonoscopies are unpleasant and uncomfortable.
Truth:
The actual screening is not painful or unpleasant. During the actual test, patients are sedated to eliminate discomfort. The procedure itself takes 15-30 minutes, and you can resume normal activities the next day.
6
Myth: I saw Katie Couric get a colonoscopy on the Today Show, so I should get one too.
Truth:
Colonoscopy screening is recommended for men and women beginning at age 50. If you are younger than 50 but have other risk factors - such as family history of cancer, obesity, smoking, ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease - talk to your doctor about your screening needs.
7
Myth: All methods for colon cancer screening are equally as effective.
Truth:
There are several screening options for colorectal cancer, including flexible sigmoidoscopy, fecal occult blood test and double-contrast barium enema. But a colonoscopy is considered the most accurate. It detects more cancers, examines the entire colon, and can be used for screening, diagnosis and removing polyps in the same procedure.
8
Myth: A polyp means I have cancer.
Truth:
Polyps are benign growths that left unchecked, have the potential to develop into cancerous tissue. Polyps can be easily removed during a colonoscopy eliminating the possibility that they will become cancerous.
9
Myth: If I have colon cancer, it means I am dying.
Truth:
When colon cancer is caught early, it has a 90 percent survival rate. That's why screening is so important. Once colon cancer has spread survival rates decrease significantly.
10
Myth: I can't afford it.
Truth:
Most insurance plans, as well as Medicare, cover a colonoscopy. Copay amounts, if required, will vary by plan.
11
Myth: I have to go to a hospital to have a colonoscopy.
Truth:
For most patients, colon cancer screening does not have to be done at a hospital. Our outpatient centers provide screenings by the same highly skilled specialists but in a more relaxed, personal environment. Furthermore, because they are not done in a hospital, cost is usually much lower.