The story is from our 100% members at Ohio Gastroenterology.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in men and the second most common in women globally. It accounts for nearly 10% of annual global cancer incidence. CRC remains the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States.

Screening is crucial for early detection and especially for prevention. The purpose is to detect and remove precancerous lesions, thereby reducing both the incidence and mortality of CRC. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, with a 5-year survival rate of 91% for localized disease compared to 14% for metastatic disease.

Due to this the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommend that screening should begin at age 45 for individuals at average risk for colorectal cancer.

Increased-risk individuals, such as those with a family history of colorectal cancer or advanced adenomas, should begin screening earlier, typically at age 40 or 10 years before the earliest diagnosis in the family.

People should be aware of the symptoms of colon cancer as there has been an increase in colon cancer incidence in the younger population, even those below 45.

Recognizing these symptoms that may present in younger individuals is crucial for early detection and timely intervention. The most common symptoms in younger patients with early-onset CRC include rectal bleeding (hematochezia), abdominal or pelvic pain and bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Additional symptoms include iron deficiency anemia, diarrhea, unexplained weight loss.

The presence of these symptoms, especially when multiple symptoms are present, should prompt further diagnostic evaluation, including colonoscopy, to rule out CRC. Early recognition and intervention are essential as younger patients often present with more advanced stages of the disease.

Despite the availability of effective screening methods, participation rates remain suboptimal, often below 40% in many settings. Barriers to screening include lack of awareness, logistical challenges, and concerns about the screening process. Addressing these barriers through education can significantly improve adherence to screening recommendations.

Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for prevention of colon cancer as it can identify and remove polyps to prevent them from progressing towards cancer.

The American College of Physicians (ACP) recommends that clinicians performing colonoscopies should have adequate training and experience to ensure the procedure's safety and effectiveness.

The U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer, which includes the American College of Gastroenterology, the American Gastroenterological Association, and the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, emphasizes that the quality of the colonoscopy is crucial. This includes the endoscopist's adenoma detection rate (ADR), which is a key quality indicator associated with reduced colorectal cancer incidence and mortality. Having a gastroenterologist that has been extensively trained to do colonoscopies increases the effectiveness of prevention of CRC.

Early detection through regular screening can save lives. The gold standard for prevention of colon cancer is a colonoscopy.

Physicians CareConnection (PCC) volunteers are truly making a difference in the lives of those most in need in our community, and we need more help! PCC’s Center for Optimal Health provides coordinated medical care for vulnerable populations in Central Ohio. Volunteer physicians and other healthcare professionals provide medical, dental, and mental health services to dozens of patients each week.

In April, our incredible team provided the first urology, cardiology, and phlebotomy services since the center opened in its new location in December 2024. More help is always needed--currently, the biggest area of need is for primary care. The center has a wait list of 70 patients who need a primary care appointment. 

Volunteers can choose how they see patients—at the center or in their own office. If you’re interested in volunteering, please complete the volunteer form.

All other services are provided at The PCC Center for Optimal Health is located at 1390 Dublin Road and is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm. Appointments are required. Dental services take place at Columbus Public Health at 240 Parsons Avenue on the first and third Tuesdays of the month by appointment.

Find much more information about the center and services on the PCC website.

CMA’s Women-in-Medicine group spent their April meet-up discussing the book “Women in White Coats: How the First Women Doctors Changed the World of Medicine.”

Community Chair Lisa Borkowski, MD, said the group had an open and honest dialogue about the uphill climb women have faced in medicine. “We also discussed some of the challenges women face today in balancing a demanding career and their personal life. I loved our conversation so much and think a book club would be great for the future,” said Dr. Borkowski.

CMA CEO Tracy Davidson was struck by the multi-generational group that gathered and the importance of this community of women to one another. “One of our newest physicians, a resident, noted how impactful having a supportive group of friends had been to her mental health and well-being during medical school/residency,” said Tracy.

Women-in-Medicine will hold their final meet-up before a summer break on Monday, May 12, with a nature hike at Highbanks Metro Park. Get more information and registered here.