Bowel or colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United Kingdom. It affects both the colon and the rectum and may extend to other parts of the body. A lot of people survive this disease only if it is detected in its early stages. But death is very likely if the condition has reached advanced stage four. This is why you should visit colorectal clinic London for screening before the symptoms develop from small polyps to cancerous cells. Polyps are small growths in the mucosa lining of the bowel. They are harmless as benign and easy to remove through colonoscopy.
Who Should Be Screened for Colorectal Cancer
It is advisable to go for screening when you approach the age of 50. Then you can repeat the process every ten years. Also, get regular check-ups if your family has a history of bowel cancer. Some of the signs that should raise eyebrows no matter your age include a change in bowel movements, blood spots in the stool, and abdominal pain. A screening test is for everyone whether they are showing symptoms it not. Early detection improves the chances of successful treatment.
How Screening Works
The program entails three stages, namely consultation, colonoscopy, and follow-up. During the consultation, the patient meets a gastrointestinal specialist to analyse the medical history, family background, and lifestyle. The physician explains how to get ready for colonoscopy and whether screening is an appropriate move. To prepare a patient, the doctor uses laxative drugs to clear the bowel to be inspected. Then they examine the colon using a colonoscope. The procedure involves the inflation of the bowel to make it easier to see what’s on the lining. A sample biopsy is taken through a painless procedure and taken to the lab for testing if any growths are detected. Most patients are sedated, so there’s minimal pain, and the whole procedure takes no more than 30 minutes. The results are released later during the follow-up appointment.
What Next?
When everything has been clarified, the patient is advised on when to take another screening, which is around ten years. In case of any polyps, they are removed, and the patient is given the next colonoscopy appointment. If the results indicate cancerous growth, further diagnosis may be required, and a treatment plan is provided. Doctors organize the relevant tests to make sure that the patient gets the best medical care.
Always keep in mind that screening saves lives. Make sure you know the location of a colorectal clinic London and call to arrange an appointment. Don’t forget to present your private medical insurance as it can pay for the colonoscopy.