5 colon cancer myths debunked

Here’s one word that could save your life: colonoscopy. This same-day procedure is a pretty easy way to catch colorectal cancer in its early stages. And it’s recommended for anyone of average risk between the ages of 45 and 75.

Colonoscopies lead to early detection. Early detection prevents deaths. More people are getting colonoscopies these days, yet the American Cancer Society estimates that more than 151,000 Americans were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2022. It’s safe to say we still have a long way to go.

People need to know the facts — starting right now.

Myth #1: I’ve never seen blood in my stool, so I don’t need a screening.

Reality: It’s a well-known fact that blood in your stool is a symptom of colon cancer. And it should be taken seriously. But your stool could look perfectly normal and still have small amounts of blood that can’t be seen by the naked eye. Other hidden symptoms include unexplained abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, unintentional weight loss, and changes in the frequency or consistency of your bowel movements.

And if you have inflammatory bowel disease, you are considered at high risk for colon cancer. The only guaranteed way to find out what’s going on for sure is to get screened.

Myth #2: Colonoscopies are too expensive for most people

Reality: Both Medicare and private insurers cover the costs of preventive colorectal screenings. And now, thanks to some additional legislation, this includes the removal of polyps found during the screening. Medicare will cover a preventive colonoscopy once every 10 years if you’re at average risk and once every two years if you’re at high risk.

There is a caveat. If you start with another kind of test — such as an at-home fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or a stool DNA test (Cologuard) — and you test positive, your next step will be a diagnostic colonoscopy. It’s the same procedure as a screening colonoscopy, but because it’s happening in response to a positive or abnormal test result, it’s considered diagnostic, not preventive. In this case, you may have a deductible or other out-of-pocket cost for the test.

To be sure you understand what kind of test you’re taking and why, check with your insurance provider and your doctor.

Myth #3: I don’t have a family history of colon cancer, so I don’t need a screening

Reality: Yes, 1 in 4 patients have a family history of colon cancer. But that means that the other 3 out of 4 people diagnosed do not have a family history of the illness.

And family histories of other conditions, including Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), are also linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. While knowing your family history is helpful, it’s only one of many factors that can determine your risk for colon cancer.

Myth #4: A colonoscopy will be painful

Reality: Nope — most patients sleep through the entire procedure. Before the colonoscopy, you’ll receive sedation through an intravenous drip, and you’ll fall asleep within about five minutes. You’ll wake up 10 to 15 minutes after the drip is removed.

There are some small risks with sedation. If you have blood pressure issues, heart problems, or breathing concerns, talk to your doctor. They may choose a different anesthetic as a result.

Myth #5: Women do not have as high a risk for colorectal cancer as men

Reality: For women, the risk of developing colorectal cancer is 1 in 25 (4%). The risk for men is just a little bit higher: 1 in 23 (4.3%). And according to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women.

Everyone should get screened. Not just men. Not just those who are considered high risk. Everyone. It could save your life.

Additional sources:
Colorectal cancer statistics: American Cancer Society
Family history information: Colorectal Cancer Alliance
Screening guidelines and overview: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services