A variety of screening options are available but colonoscopy remains the definitive gold-standard screening modality for not only the diagnosis but also the treatment of colon polyps and cancer. Other tests including fecal DNA/Blood tests, double contrast barium enema and virtual CT colonography also known as “virtual colonoscopy” do NOT have the capabilities of reducing your risk by taking out polyps.

The do-it-yourself (DIY) screening test, Cologaurd, examines DNA in your stool. Despite massive marketing efforts it is important that patients understand the sensitivity and specificity of this test is lower than that of colonoscopy. All patients with a positive test require a costly diagnostic colonoscopy that is often not covered by insurance. Unfortunately, 13% of patients with a positive test have a “false positive” creating unnecessary emotional stress as they deal with the prospect of having caner. More importantly though, 10%-58% of patients are told they have a negative test when in fact they have colon cancer – polyps. This test could possibly cost you your life! In the end colonoscopy is the definitive test and Dr. Mantas has expert training in this procedure.

It is recommended that everyone at the age of 45 years old undergo a screening colonoscopy. Patients with a family history of colon polyps or colon cancer should be screened at age 40 years old or 10 years younger than the afflicted relative. Patients with established genetic syndromes listed above need unique more intensive screening protocols beginning at early age. Please Dr. Mantas to discuss these specific screening regimens. Once a polyp is found and removed surveillance colonoscopies are needed as the risk of forming future colon polyps or cancer is greatly increased.

During colonoscopy colon polyps are removed using a variety endoscopic techniques including biopsy forceps and cautery snares. Dr. Mantas even has expertise in removing larger polyps using advanced techniques including endoscopic mucosal resection obviating the need for surgery. Once a polyp is found and removed surveillance colonoscopies are needed as the risk of forming future colon polyps is greatly increased. Depending on the number, type and size of polyps and adequacy of colon prep Dr. Mantas recommends surveillance colonoscopies ranging in frequency from 10 years to 6 months. If colon cancer is diagnosed various treatment options are available including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation depending on stage.

In addition to losing weight by diet and exercise and eliminating modifiable risk factors listed above, supplementing your diet with calcium, fibers, fruits, vegetables and foods with high anti-oxidant content (selenium, folate, carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin D) has been shown to decrease one’s risk of developing colon polyps and colon cancer. In addition certain medications appear to decrease one’s risk including the use of aspirin and hormone replacement therapy. These measures may be important to consider especially in someone who is at higher risk because of a family history. In the end removal of colon polyps during colonoscopy remains the most effective way to decrease your risk of colon cancer.