A Colorectal Cancer Doctor’s Unusual Request: Share Your Medical History with Your Family
A colorectal cancer doctor is making the case for being open with your family about your medical history. Dr. Parul Shukla, a colon and rectal surgeon with Northwell Health, stresses that communication is key to preventing colorectal cancer.
The Request: Share Your Colonoscopy Results with Your Family
Dr. Shukla urges patients to share their colonoscopy results with their children or siblings, as this could potentially save a life. "Please don’t be shy to discuss the findings of your colonoscopy with your children or with your siblings, because you might save a life," he says.
Why Early Detection Matters
The US Prevention Task Force recommends starting colorectal cancer screenings, including colonoscopies, at age 45. However, if you have a family history of the disease, you may need to start screening earlier. Unfortunately, many people do not discuss their medical history with their families, leaving loved ones unaware of potential risks.
What You Need to Know
- If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to start screening earlier.
- Ask your doctor follow-up questions, such as the size and type of any polyps removed during a colonoscopy.
- If your father had an advanced adenoma, you may need to start screening 5-10 years earlier.
The Rise of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer in people under 50 is on the rise, increasing by 1.4% every year. Dr. Shukla notes that while colorectal cancer is more common in men, early-onset cases are affecting women at a higher rate. "It’s actually flipped the rate… so it’s a frightening statistic, but unfortunately, in the younger age group, women are getting colorectal cancer more than men."
Alternative Screening Options
If you’re hesitant to get a colonoscopy, there are alternative screening options, including a stool test or Cologuard. While these tests are not as effective as a colonoscopy, they can still be a useful step towards early detection.
Conclusion
Dr. Shukla’s advice is clear: be open with your family about your medical history and encourage them to get screened. By sharing your results and staying proactive, you can help prevent colorectal cancer and save lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I get a colonoscopy?
A: The US Prevention Task Force recommends starting colon cancer screenings at age 45, but if you have a family history, you may need to start screening earlier.
Q: What are the warning signs of colon cancer?
A: Dr. Shukla previously detailed the warning signs, including no symptoms at all in young people.
Q: What are alternative screening options?
A: Stool tests and Cologuard are alternative options, but a colonoscopy is still the most effective way to detect and remove polyps.
