5 common colorectal cancer myths, debunked
As with many health matters, there are plenty of myths and misconceptions about colorectal cancer and colonoscopies. Here are the facts — knowing them could save your life.
Here’s one word that could save your life: colonoscopy. This same-day procedure is a pretty easy way for a doctor to find 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 helps prevent deaths. The really good news? More people are getting colonoscopies these days, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Even so, the group estimates that more than 154,000 Americans will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2025.
To help keep yourself from becoming another number, ask yourself if you believe any of these common myths about colorectal cancer and the life-saving screenings that spot it.
Did you know HMSA members have access to personalized support to help you manage your health and well-being? Learn more here.
Myth #1: I’ve never seen blood in my stool, so I don’t need a screening.
Reality: It’s well-known that blood in your stool is a symptom of colorectal 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, fatigue, weight loss, or changes in the frequency or consistency of your bowel movements.
And if you have an inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, you are considered at high risk for colorectal cancer. The only guaranteed way to find out what’s going on for sure is to get screened.
Myth #2: Colonoscopies are too expensive.
Reality: Both HMSA and Medicare cover the costs of preventive colorectal screenings. 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 24 months 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.
To be sure you understand what kind of test you’re taking and why, check your plan benefits and with your doctor.
Myth #3: I don’t have a family history of colon cancer, so I don’t need a screening.
Reality: Though 1 in 4 patients have a family history of colorectal cancer, according to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, 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.
Are you ready for your next annual wellness visit?
Call your primary care provider to schedule an appointment. If you don’t have a PCP, you can use Find a Doctor on hmsa.com to search for a participating provider near you.
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 26 (a little less than 4%). The risk for men is just a little bit higher: 1 in 24 (about 4.2%). And according to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women combined. (It is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and the fourth in women.)
Everyone should get screened. Not just men. Not just those who are considered high risk. Everyone. It could save your life.
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
Insurance coverage for colorectal screening: American Cancer Society
Preparing for a colonoscopy: American Society of Anesthesiologists
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