RICHLAND, Wash. – Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern, but screening can effectively prevent it.
Dr. Luay Ailabouni, a colorectal surgeon and Kadlec’s Medical Director of Digestive Health, shared insights on the importance of screenings.
He emphasized, “There’s a lot of myths out there that, you know, I don’t have any symptoms, so why should I get screened? Or a lot of people think that this is a taboo area or taboo topic they don’t want to talk about.”
He addressed concerns about the procedure, stating, “A lot of patients, including friends of mine, even doctors who want to get a colonoscopy, and they come and ask me, is this painful? If you get in a colonoscopy nowadays, it’s different than 50 and 60 years ago, you’re getting sedated, you’re getting anesthesia, and you will feel nothing.”
Dr. Ailabouni added that after the first colonoscopy, most patients will not need another for three to five years, unless they are at high risk. Those at the highest risk might need annual screenings, while some patients with negative screenings may have a 10-year clearance.
To maintain a healthy colon, experts suggest a diet high in fiber, low in fat and processed foods, combined with regular exercise. However, there are about 140,000 new cases of colorectal cancer each year.
Symptoms like rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss are signals to see a doctor.
Risk factors include a family history of polyps or breast, colon, stomach, or cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, and being of Black or Hispanic descent.
Those 45 and older should consider scheduling a colonoscopy. Dr. Ailabouni advised contacting a general practitioner, GI specialist, or scheduling with Kadlec for screenings.
You can go to Kadlec’s website for scheduling information.
