Virtual Colonscopy
Colon Cancer Facts
Why is it important for me to have a colon screening exam?
The American Cancer Society reports colon cancer (also referred to as colorectal cancer) as the second leading cause of cancer related death in the United States. This is a shame considering colon cancer is the most preventable and treatable cancer with a survival rate of 90% if the abnormal growths are detected and treated before cancer spreads to other vital organs. However, only 37% of men and women over the age of 50 were screened for colon cancer last year. Pre-cancerous polyps can be present for years before invasive cancer develops and regular screening allows for early detection and prevention of colon cancer. Virutal Colonoscopy is a safe, quick, and reliable screening method to protect yourself from colon cancer.What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer, also referred to as colorectal cancer, is the second leading cause of cancer related death in the United States. Colon cancer affects 6% of the population in the United States and the American Cancer Society reports 57,000 colon cancer related deaths per year. Both men and women are at risk. Colon cancer is the most preventable cancer because it ordinarily develops from pre-cancerous polyps in the colon which can be easily screened. With early screening, pre-cancerous polyps can be removed before becoming cancerous. On average, abnormal growths in the colon follow a sequence of development from pre-cancerous polyps to cancerous polyps over a period of 7-10 years. For more information on colon cancer ask your primary care provider or visit the American Cancer Society website.
What is a polyp?
A polyp is an abnormal growth found on the inner wall of the colon or rectum. Some polyps are known to be the precursor of colorectal cancer. Polyps can be, benign (non-cancerous) or pre-cancerous. If caught early, pre-cancerous polyps can be removed before they may become cancerous. Research shows there is a correlation between type of polyp and polyp size. Smaller polyps (<6 mm) are usually benign, while larger (>8 mm) polyps have a potential of being pre-cancerous. The greater the size of the polyp the more likelihood the polyp is pre-cancerous. Small polyps <6 mm have less than 1% chance of becoming cancerous. Please note that about 85% of the colon cancer screening population will have no significant polyps. Virtual colonoscopy recommends removal of pre-cancerous polyps and follow-ups for small probable benign polyps.For more information on CT Virtual Colonoscopy please visit vcscreen.com.
