KH . ORG 17 Different screening options “It’s necessary for primary care providers to make their patients aware of the importance of colorectal cancer screening and the different options available to them,” added Kootenai Clinic family medicine physician Ryan Gilles, M.D. “Colonoscopies are still the gold standard for detecting precancerous polyps, but at-home stool tests are also very effective. They are a great option for those who may have a hard time getting to a medical center that performs colonoscopies or have general reservations about the procedure. What matters most is that patients get tested so we can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they become cancer.” To Dr. Gilles’ point, Dr. Johnson was able to pinpoint and remove precancerous polyps during my colonoscopy. I now know to schedule regular colonoscopies as an ongoing preventive measure for my colorectal health. “There is a big difference in the survival rate among those with stages I to II colorectal cancer and those with stages III to IV,” said Dr. Johnson. “We see a lot of colon cancers that could have been prevented, had abnormalities been detected early. We strongly recommend you talk to your health care provider about screening options, including a colonoscopy or an at-home test, and call us at the first sign of symptoms.” Dr. Gilles added, “It’s so important to take charge of your own health. As physicians, we’re here to work with you to provide you with the preventive tools you need to live your best life.” Checkups are amust I am one of the lucky ones. My provider knew I should take steps to monitor my colorectal health, including cancer screening; exercise; and a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains. If you are age 45 or older, talk to your primary care provider about the colorectal cancer screening option that works best for you. David Johnson, M.D., performs a colonoscopy. You have options. For answers about colorectal cancer screening, visit KH.org/gastroenterology or call (208) 625-4595. Colorectal Cancer Q&A Q:What symptoms should I be concernedabout? People do not always have symptoms, especially in early stages—that’s why it is important to get tested. Contact your health care provider if you notice any unusual symptoms, such as blood in your stool; abdominal pain, aches or cramps that don’t go away; changes in stool characteristics; or unexplained weight loss. Q:Whenshould I start getting screened? Both men and women should start at age 45. Talk to your primary care provider for screening options. Q:What types of tests screen for colorectal cancer? • Stool test (done in the privacy of your own home): You will not need sedation, special preparation or time off from work or regular activities. • Colonoscopy (visual test, done in a doctor’s office): This test uses a tube with a tiny camera to look inside your colon and rectum to identify and remove polyps and/ or cancerous-looking tissue. Dedicate a day to prepare and a day to recover. Requires sedation. Q: Howdo I pay for a screening test? Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover all of the tests listed above. Check with your insurance company about your coverage.
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