Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States, and is the second most common cause of all cancer deaths in the country.

More than 150,000 new cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2023.

However, colorectal cancer can be caught early and prevented through regular screenings.

“Colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening,” says gastroenterologist Anthony Auteri, MD, with Eastern Pennsylvania Gastroenterology and Liver Specialists and Chief, Division of Gastroenterology, Lehigh Valley Health Network.

We’ve answered some common questions about this important screening tool:

What is a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy looks for concerning changes in the large intestine (colon) and rectum to be identified and removed before they become cancerous.

A typical colonoscopy is done by a gastroenterologist and takes between 20 and 30 minutes. You won’t be awake or feel anything.

A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum that will advance through the colon to make sure there are no abnormal growths or concerning areas.

“It takes about 30 minutes to completely wake up after the procedure, but you likely won’t be in any pain,” Auteri says. “Some people go out for a bite to eat after.”

Why is colonoscopy so important?

If a growth is found during a colonoscopy, your doctor can either remove it entirely or take a small sample biopsy for testing.

Polyps, growths that start as benign and can become cancerous if not removed, are commonly found during colonoscopy.

“On average, we find precancerous polyps in 1 in 4 people over age 45,” Auteri says.

When should I start getting colonoscopy and how often?

Most people should start colonoscopy screening at age 45.

For those at higher risk for developing colorectal cancer (based on your family or personal health history), your gastroenterologist may recommend screening earlier.

If nothing is found, you will not need another for 10 years.

If polyps are found or if you are at a higher risk, you may need another in three to five years.

How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?

Your colon needs to be cleaned out for your procedure. You will need to follow a clear liquid diet plan and drink fluid with laxatives 24 hours before your colonoscopy.

“If you experience regular bouts of constipation, you could benefit from starting a clear liquid diet 48 hours before,” Auteri says.

Are there any other ways to be screened?

There are two other screening options – stool tests and imaging tests.

Stool tests involve taking multiple samples of your stool that will be tested for traces of blood and genetic material associated with colorectal cancer. These tests are good at identifying colon cancer, but not very good at preventing colon cancer.

CT scans (virtual colonoscopy) can show growths and polyps that would be identified during a colonoscopy; however, individuals still need to cleanse their colon with a bowel prep ahead of the scan. If polyps are identified, you will need to undergo a colonoscopy.

“No one enjoys the bowel preparation, but colonoscopy is truly the best tool we have for preventing colorectal cancer,” Auteri says.

LVPG General Surgery–Carbon is located in the Health Center at Carbon. To schedule an appointment, call 888-402-LVHN (5846).