The world is grappling with the increasing occurrence of colorectal cancer, despite the decline in its death rate. In addition, statistics reveal that rising number of deaths due to colorectal cancer in patients below 55 years. Hence, most doctors recommend early screening, especially for patients aged 45 and above.

Oncologists worldwide are emphasizing the use of a stool-based test known as the Fecal Immunochemical Test - FIT, as an alternative to colonoscopy, an invasive test, and other cancer screening tests.  

In this regard, Bangalore-based oncologist Dr. Sandeep Nayak states,' Prevention is better than cure. Therefore, I advise people to seek preventive screening for cancer, including colorectal cancer. This can be done for any healthy person above 45 years of age.  A faecal immunochemical blood test is one of the reliable screening test that is to be done once in a year and colonoscopy is to be done once in 10 years.'

In general, screening of all individuals is advisable at 45. Individuals who have never been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, inherited colorectal cancer syndrome, suspected cancer syndrome, or certain polyps are at an average risk of cancer. Lowering the age of colorectal cancer screening is preferred considering the current global trends.

Cancer detection has always been a challenge; people detected with cancer do not always complain of symptoms; at times, cancer detection takes place during regular medical checkups which is called screening. Screening tests are mainly for identifying patients with no symptoms. However, when patients come with specific symptoms  like  persistent or lingering symptoms which are rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, frequent feeling of passing bowels, dark brown or black stool, abdominal cramps, and unexplained weight loss to undergo diagnostic test which is colonoscopy.

The decision to proceed with cancer screening is a joint decision between the doctor and the patient. Important factors to consider are patient symptoms and family history before cancer screening. People with strong family history need a different type of screening from that of normal population. 

Initial screening could include the Fecal Immunochemical Test – FIT, also known as FOBT, FIT, Hemoccult test, stool occult blood, guaiac smear test, and so on. The test is non-invasive, easy to use and cost-effective too. A faecal occult blood test is one or several colorectal screening tests. In addition, oncologist can perform a stool DNA test, colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, CT colonography or virtual colonoscopy to detect colorectal cancer. 

The stool DNA test looks for blood and cells with genetic changes in the stool, while colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy involve using a thin tube with a camera to view the inside of the colon. With CT colonography, you need to consume a dye before having an x-ray was taken that produces a 3-dimensional image of the entire colon and rectum. Each test has advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best one for your needs.

According to Dr Sandeep Nayak, a leading surgical oncologist in Bangalore, enhancing one's lifestyle can reduce cancer risk. He recommends healthy living and eating habits to ensure good gut health, greatly lowering cancer risk. Also, he stresses regular exercise, maintaining proper body weight, no tobacco consumption, and limited intake of alcohol to reduce the cancer risk.

About Dr. Sandeep Nayak

As one of India's leading surgical oncologists, Dr Sandeep Nayak has established the MACS Clinic in Bangalore. He is an expert in performing minimally invasive cancer surgery, including robotic, laparoscopic, and endoscopic surgery. He has considerable experience treating patients diagnosed with the colorectal, digestive tract, head and neck, breast, urinary tract, gynecologic, and abdominal organ cancers. He and his exceptionally qualified multidisciplinary team offer consultations to cancer patients and their families.

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