With colorectal cancer cases on the
rise among young people, the screening
guidelines were recently lowered to age 45,
rather than the previous 50 years of age.
In 2020, 12 percent of colorectal cancer cases in the U.S.
were in individuals under the age of 50. It claimed the life
of Chadwick Boseman, star of the film “Black Panther,” at
the age of 43. African Americans are 20 percent more likely
to get colorectal cancer and about 40 percent more likely to
die from it than most other racial/ethnic groups, according
to the American Cancer Society.
Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause
of cancer deaths in men and women combined and was
expected to cause nearly 53,000 deaths in 2021 (American
Cancer Society). Yet, these deaths are highly preventable
with early detection.
The most recent Community Health Needs Assessment
(2020) shows colorectal cancer incidence rate (2012-2016)
for Calvert was higher than state and national averages.
It is the fourth most common cancer among CalvertHealth
patients.
The good news is the death rate from colorectal cancer
is dropping in large part due to early detection resulting
from removal of polyps during screenings before they can
develop into cancers.
Dr. Bilal Ahmed said there are more than 200,000
cases of colorectal cancer each year and the stage in which
the cancer is identified determines the prognosis, success,
and need for chemotherapy. If the cancer is found in the
precancerous stage or the earliest stage, the chances of
success are high.
“It’s very important to get the screening done and
diagnose it early,” Dr. Ahmed said. Community members
are urged not to delay colorectal screenings, even during
the pandemic.
The American Cancer Society recommends people at
average risk of colorectal cancer begin regular screenings
at age 45 and continue through the age of 75. For those
ages 76 through 85, screening decisions are based on
prior screening history, overall health, life expectancy, and
personal preference.
Individuals may often delay colorectal cancer
screenings that involve colonoscopies because of the
preparation involved. There’s also a population of older
patients who believe they don’t need it anymore.
According to Dr. Ahmed, “It’s always important to have
that conversation with your own primary care provider
before making a decision regarding delaying or
foregoing screening.”
Colorectal screenings require a patient to fast and
take medications to clear the colon. Then, under
sedation, a doctor uses a camera to detect the presence of
polyps and to remove them, if applicable. “Early detection
truly does save lives,” said Dr. Ahmed. In many instances,
polyps removed during the colonoscopy or in a subsequent
procedure means that no further treatment, such as
chemotherapy or other treatment, is needed.
While most insurance companies will cover the cost of
the screening from age 45, those who are underinsured or
not insured may be able to take advantage of the Calvert
County Health Department’s no cost screening program.