When was the last time you thought about your colon health? If you’re like most people, it probably doesn’t make your top 10 list of daily concerns. Between career demands, family responsibilities, and the general busyness of life, it’s easy to put routine health screenings on the back burner – especially ones that don’t seem urgent.
But here’s something that might surprise you: colorectal cancer rates are actually increasing among younger adults. This troubling trend is why health experts recently lowered the recommended screening age from 50 to 45 for people at average risk. And yet, about one-third of eligible adults aren’t up-to-date on their screenings.
Let’s have an honest conversation about why waiting until you’re “older” or until you “have symptoms” could be costing you more than you realize.
The Changing Face of Colorectal Cancer
First, let’s bust a myth: colorectal cancer isn’t just “an old person’s disease.” While it’s true that risk increases with age, we’re seeing a concerning 1-2% annual increase in cases among adults under 50.
Dr. Schroder, Lead Radiologist at Craft Body Scan, puts it plainly: “Twenty years ago, it was rare to see colorectal cancer in someone under 50. Today, it’s becoming increasingly common, and many of these younger patients have no family history or obvious risk factors.”
This shift is one reason the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force updated their guidelines, recommending that screening begin at age 45 for everyone at average risk.
The Secret Power of Early Detection
Here’s where things get interesting – and hopeful. When detected early, colorectal cancer has a 90% five-year survival rate. That number plummets to just 14% when found in advanced stages.
Why such a dramatic difference? Because early-stage colorectal cancer is highly treatable, often requiring less invasive procedures and fewer complications. Many early cancers can be treated with minimally invasive surgery alone, avoiding the need for chemotherapy or radiation.
Even better, screening can actually prevent cancer altogether. During screening, precancerous polyps can be identified and removed before they turn into cancer. It’s like having the ability to stop cancer before it starts.
The Real Costs of Delaying Screening
When we talk about “costs,” we’re not just talking about financial expenses (though those are significant). The costs of delaying screening also include:
1. Health Consequences Waiting until symptoms appear often means dealing with more advanced disease. Symptoms like rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss typically don’t show up until the cancer has already progressed.
2. Treatment Intensity Early-stage cancer might require only surgical removal of the tumor or polyps. Advanced disease often demands aggressive combinations of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy – all with their own side effects and recovery periods.
3. Emotional Toll Being diagnosed with advanced cancer affects not just your physical health but your emotional wellbeing and that of your loved ones. The stress, uncertainty, and fear that accompany a serious diagnosis can’t be quantified.
4. Financial Impact The financial reality is stark: treating early-stage colorectal cancer costs approximately $30,000-$50,000. Advanced cases can exceed $200,000, not counting lost wages, travel expenses for treatment, or caregiver costs.
5. Life Opportunities Perhaps most importantly, delaying screening might cost you precious time with family, career achievements, travel adventures, and simply enjoying life.
One of our patients, Michael (54), shared his perspective: “I kept putting off my colonoscopy because I was too busy building my business. When I finally got screened at 53, they found stage 3 cancer. I spent the next year in treatment instead of enjoying the company I’d worked so hard to build. Don’t make my mistake.”
Removing Barriers to Screening
At Craft Body Scan, we understand that several barriers keep people from getting screened at 45:
Fear and Anxiety: Many people worry about discomfort, embarrassment, or what might be found.
Time Constraints: Traditional colonoscopies require preparation, the procedure itself, and recovery time – often amounting to 2-3 days of disruption.
Lack of Awareness: Many people simply don’t know they should begin screening at 45.
This is why we’ve made early detection more accessible through virtual colonoscopy. This alternative screening method:
- Takes just 15 minutes
- Requires no sedation
- Allows you to drive yourself home
- Lets you return to normal activities immediately
- Is highly effective at detecting significant polyps and early cancers
Understanding Your Options
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your health. Here’s what you should know about screening options:
Traditional Colonoscopy: Remains the gold standard, allowing for both detection and removal of polyps in one procedure. It’s recommended every 10 years for average-risk individuals.
Virtual Colonoscopy: A less invasive option using CT technology to create detailed images of your colon. It’s recommended every 5 years and is especially good for people who want to avoid sedation or have medical conditions that make traditional colonoscopy risky.
Stool-Based Tests: Several at-home options test for hidden blood or DNA markers that might indicate cancer. These need to be done more frequently (1-3 years, depending on the test).
The best screening test is the one you’ll actually get done. What matters most is that you choose an option and follow through.
Taking Control of Your Health Journey
If you’re approaching or have passed your 45th birthday, here’s your empowerment plan:
1. Assess Your Risk Talk with your doctor about your personal and family medical history. Some risk factors that might indicate earlier or more frequent screening include:
- Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease
- Certain genetic syndromes
- African American heritage
- History of radiation to the abdomen
2. Choose Your Screening Method Consider your preferences, medical history, and lifestyle when selecting a screening approach. Remember, the best test is the one you’ll complete.
3. Schedule—and Keep—Your Appointment Once you’ve decided on a screening method, put it on your calendar. Treat it with the same importance as your most crucial work meeting or family commitment.
4. Spread the Word Share your screening experience with friends and family members who are approaching or have passed 45. Your story might be the encouragement someone else needs.
Your Future Self Will Thank You
At Craft Body Scan, we’ve seen countless patients experience the relief that comes with taking control of their health through timely screening. Whether their results show all-clear or identify issues that need attention, they walk away with valuable information and a plan.
Remember, screening at 45 isn’t just about finding problems—it’s about peace of mind and creating more healthy years with the people you love.
The hidden cost of waiting is simply too high. The choice to screen at 45 isn’t just smart healthcare—it’s an investment in your future.
Ready to take control of your colon health? Our team at Craft Body Scan is here to guide you through the process with respect, care, and the most advanced screening technology available. Because your health journey matters to us.
