Testing for colorectal cancer urged by Kaiser Permanente

Saving lives through early detection

Colorectal cancer is vitally important to talk about it and screen for because it is the second leading cancer killer in the United States. With few early warning signs, colorectal cancer is often called a silent killer. And with March being Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important for everyone to be aware of this disease.

“Worldwide we’re seeing a lower age of colorectal cancer onset,” said Stephen Moff, MD, chief of Gastroenterology at Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara. “We don’t know why this is the case, but Kaiser Permanente is moving to start testing all men and women at age 45, instead of 50.”

Following recently updated federal guidelines, Kaiser Permanente Northern California is recommending screening to adults ages 45 to 49. Those who have a family history of colorectal cancer, or certain genetic conditions that make them vulnerable to the disease, may get screened earlier.

Kaiser Permanente’s colorectal cancer screening program is a model for the nation. Members are annually mailed a simple, at home, non-invasive test. Kaiser Permanente’s home screening test has lowered colorectal cancer deaths by 50% among its members over the last 20 years.

“It’s called FIT, which stands for fecal immunochemical test. It looks for microscopic traces of blood in the stool, which could be a sign that cancer is developing in the colon,” Moff said.

After taking the FIT test, members mail it for free to Kaiser Permanente’s lab for analysis. If it’s positive for blood traces, a member is scheduled for a colonoscopy. That test looks for polyps in the colon and can remove them to help prevent cancer.

“Early detection is the key,” Moff said. “Finding the cancer early, before it has a chance to spread, saves lives.”

About 9 out of every 10 people whose colorectal cancers are found early and treated appropriately are still alive five years later.

There are lifestyle changes that can lower the risk of colorectal cancer including:

• Being at a healthy weight. Obesity can increase a person’s risk for colorectal cancer, especially for men.
• Staying active by getting at least 30 minutes of exercise 5 to 7 days a week.
• Eating a healthy diet, especially foods rich in fiber can be beneficial.
• Limiting your alcohol intake. Studies have shown heavy drinking can increase the risk of colorectal cancer.