No one enjoys a colonoscopy, but testing for colon cancer can be a life saver. Screening can find colon cancer while it's still easy to treat.
Adults with disabilities, however, have lower colon cancer screening rates than other adults, a new study finds.
Need for increased awareness
Researchers reviewed South Carolina Medicaid (a social healthcare programme for those with limited resources) and Medicare (a national social insurance programme funded by payroll tax) claims, state health plan claims and hospital discharge data from 2000 to 2009.
About 48% of the general population reported having routine screenings, compared to 34% of those with intellectual disabilities; 44% of those with spinal cord injuries, and 46% of people with blindness or limited sight.
"These individuals may not be routinely screened for colon cancer due to a lack of education and awareness, transportation challenges or other barriers," study author Chelsea Deroche said in a University of Missouri-Columbia news release. She is an assistant professor in the Department of Health Management and Informatics.
"These findings support the need for increased awareness and targeted advocacy outreach efforts to both physicians and caregivers to ensure all individuals are screened appropriately," she added.
Three ways to check for colon cancer
Colon cancer is fourth most common type of cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. (Similar statistics are unfortunately not available for South Africa.) Deroche noted that almost 60% of these deaths could be prevented if people would get routine screenings starting at age 50.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening 50- to 75-year-olds. The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) promotes testing for cancer as soon as people experience symptoms which concern them.
There are three ways to check for colon cancer:
- Faecal occult blood test every year
- Sigmoidoscopy every five years, plus a faecal occult blood test every three years
- Colonoscopy every 10 years
The earlier colon cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances of survival.
Read more:
New colon cancer screening guidelines