Removing Colon Polyps Slashes Cancer Deaths
Online, April 2, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Two studies recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine add more evidence that screening for colorectal cancer saves lives. Colonoscopy is the most effective means for discovering polyps and adenomas but the number of 50+ year old adults to have the screening test remains low at about 33%. One analysis performed at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in NYC showed that removal of suspicious polyps reduced deaths from colorectal cancer by 53% in ensuing years.
New guidelines issued by the American College of Physicians recommended that adults be screened for colorectal cancer starting at the age of 50. People at high risk through personal history of the disease or a first degree relative with colorectal cancer should be screened beginning at 40 years of age. Studies have shown that it is important to repeat the test every 10 years until age 75. Patients tend to avoid the test because of false assumptions about the discomfort involved in undergoing the procedure.
People wishing to be screened for colorectal cancer should look for a facility that adheres to the strict guidelines set by Medicare and AAAhC for GI Suites. Board-Certified Anesthesiologistsshould administer comfort anesthesia to lessen discomfort for the patient. At Old Hook Medical Associates, the test is performed by Board-Certified Gastroenterologists, Dr. Ira Zucker, and Dr. David Goldstein who are highly trained and attuned to finding even subtle lesions such as flat, right-sided polyps. Small or flat colon polyps, particularly in women, can be easily missed and operator expertise is critical for their detection and removal.
Old Hook Medical Associates is a multi-specialty healthcare practice located in Emerson, NJ, where primary care, specialty physicians, nurse practitioners, and other medical professionals work together under one roof. Through an environment of close cooperation among colleagues, coupled with a cutting edge system of electronic health records, Old Hook Medical delivers outstanding medical care to residents of Bergen and Rockland counties.