Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the world, but what many people don't know is that it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the world. highly preventable and treatable if detected early. As awareness of the disease increases, doctors emphasise the importance of early detection. colonoscopya procedure that can detect and remove polyps before they turn into cancer.
What is a colonoscopy and why is it so important?
Colonoscopy is a procedure in which a doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end, called a colonoscope, into the patient's colon. The camera makes it possible to view the inner lining of the colon and detect any abnormalities, such as polyps, which are growths in the colon that can become cancerous if not removed.
Colorectal cancer usually begins with small polyps, making it one of the few types of cancer that can be prevented by regular screening. If detected early, polyps can be removed during colonoscopy, preventing them from developing into cancer.
When should I have a colonoscopy?
The recommended age for colonoscopy in people without specific risk factors is from the age of 50, although recent guidelines suggest that screening should be considered from the age of 45 due to an increase in the incidence of colorectal cancer in younger people. However, people with a family history of colorectal cancer or with inflammatory bowel conditions, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, may need to have colonoscopies earlier and more frequently.
New technologies for more accurate detection
In recent years, the technology behind colonoscopy has improved dramatically. The introduction of the artificial intelligence (AI) has enabled doctors to detect smaller, less obvious polyps, improving detection rates and reducing the risk of undiagnosed cancer. These AI tools analyse images of the colon in real time, assisting the doctor in identifying suspicious areas.
Impact of early detection on patients
Studies show that people who undergo regular colonoscopies have a higher rate of colonoscopy than those who do not. 90% less likely of developing colorectal cancer. Removing a polyp before it becomes cancerous not only saves lives, but also avoids more aggressive treatments such as surgery or chemotherapy. For patients, this means a better quality of life and fewer long-term worries.
In summary, colonoscopy is a powerful tool in the fight against colorectal cancer, and early detection remains the best defence against this preventable disease.