Mary Washington Healthcare’s Regional Cancer Center Colorectal Clinical
Team has developed screening guidelines for colorectal cancers. Screening
identifies pre-cancerous polyps (abnormal growths) so they can be removed.
Our recommendations are in line with those established by professional
organizations whose members include experts in the fields of screening
and treating colorectal cancers: American College of Gastroenterology,
American Gastroenterological Association, Society for Gastrointestinal
Endoscopy, American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, and American
Cancer Society.
Screening guidelines can be confusing and conflicting. Our recommendations
are as follows:
- Colonoscopy is recommended as the best method for colorectal cancer screening,
and unlike other methods, colonoscopy can prevent colorectal cancer.
- Routine screening starts at age 45 and can continue to age 80-85.
- If you have a first-generation relative with colorectal cancer, your screening
should begin ten years before the age of your relative at diagnosis.
- Frequency of screening is based on previous screening findings, genetic
predisposition for colorectal cancer and physician recommendations.
Mary Washington Healthcare’s Regional Cancer Center Colorectal Clinical
Team is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.
The clinical team is comprised of physicians who are board certified in
surgery, gastroenterology, oncology, pathology, and radiology. Other team
members include registered dietitians, genetic counselors and nurses who
specialize in endoscopy, ostomy care and oncology navigation.
If you have questions about the preparation process for colonoscopy, insurance
coverage for screening, othertypes of screenings or concerns specific
to your individual health, please contact a gastroenterologist. Mary Washington
Healthcare’s Health Link representatives can help you locate a gastroenterologist
by calling 540.741.1404 or 800.722.2788.
Visit
Cancer.mwhc.com for more information about the Regional Cancer Center.