How to lower colorectal cancer risk, which runs in my family?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I understand your concern.

I am glad to know you are being proactive regarding your own risk for colorectal cancer, given the fact that you have a family history of colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that average-risk individuals start screening at age 45.

However, with a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to start earlier. If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) diagnosed with colorectal cancer, consider starting screenings ten years before the age at which they were diagnosed or at age 40, whichever comes first.

If there are hereditary conditions in your family (like Lynch syndrome (a genetic condition that increases the risk of several types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer and endometrial cancer) or familial adenomatous polyposis, a genetic disorder characterized by the development of numerous adenomatous polyps in the colon and rectum), you should consult your caring doctor for specific recommendations.

Most effective screening methods include:

1. Colonoscopy: Considered the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. It allows for direct visualization of the colon and the ability to remove polyps during the procedure. Recommended every ten years for average-risk individuals, but your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings based on your risk factors.

2. Flexible sigmoidoscopy: This involves examining the lower part of the colon and is typically done every five years. It may be combined with stool tests for a more comprehensive approach.

3. Stool-based tests: Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): A yearly test that checks for blood in the stool. Multi-Target Stool DNA Test (MT-sDNA): This can be done every three years and looks for certain DNA markers in addition to blood.

4. CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy): An imaging test that uses CT scans to look for polyps and cancers in the colon. Recommended every five years, but typically not the first choice.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.