News Summary
Connor Wentling from Rock Hill is emphasizing the necessity of colon cancer screenings after his own health scare. With new guidelines lowering the screening age to 45, he highlights the importance of early detection, especially as health disparities grow. The rise in colon polyps among younger individuals underscores the need for routine screening and medical intervention.
Rock Hill Man Champions Colon Cancer Screenings Following Personal Health Scare
March is recognized as Colon Cancer Awareness Month, a perfect time to bring attention to the importance of getting screened. In Rock Hill, one local man, Connor Wentling, is taking it upon himself to encourage others to prioritize their health by getting screened for colon cancer, especially after facing a health scare of his own.
At 45 years old, Wentling found himself in a situation many people his age often overlook. The recommended age for a first colon cancer screening was lowered from 50 to 45 in 2021, a change that aims to catch potential issues before they develop into something more serious. Wentling decided to act on this guidance, and during his screening, doctors discovered a single polyp attached to his colon. Luckily, the polyp was promptly removed by skilled medical professionals. If not addressed, it could have turned into cancer in just a few years.
Understanding Polyps and Their Impact
All colon cancer begins as a small polyp, which is a growth that forms on the lining of the colon. It’s essential to note that many polyps do not present any symptoms, which makes screening crucial. In fact, the medical team is performing around 35 colon screenings each day—a clear indication of the rising concern among health experts regarding colon cancer.
Statistics indicate that approximately one third of all Americans develop a polyp by the age of 45. This alarming increase in polyps, especially among younger individuals, has been attributed to several lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, diets rich in red meat, obesity, low fiber intake, and an increased reliance on processed foods.
The Importance of Regular Screenings
For many, polyps can form without any prior warning, making routine screenings even more vital. After a first colonoscopy, follow-up screenings are generally recommended every 5 to 10 years. This will help catch any new growths early before they can evolve into more serious conditions.
For those unsure about whether they need to get screened, organizations are stepping up to help. For example, Piedmont Medical Center now offers an online assessment tool to help patients determine whether they should consult a doctor.
Alternative Screening Options
An innovative solution has also emerged in the form of the Shield Blood Test, which is an FDA-approved option for adults aged 45 and older. This blood test checks for colon polyps or colorectal cancer. While it provides a good first step, it should not replace a colonoscopy, which remains the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment.
The cost of the Shield Blood Test is around $800, and as of now, it isn’t covered by insurance. Should the test yield positive results, immediate follow-up with a colonoscopy is crucial to address any possible issues.
The Long-Term Effects of the Pandemic
It’s also important to mention that COVID-19 has significantly delayed cancer screenings and treatments, leading to more advanced cases being presented, especially in low-income communities. Many patients, particularly those from communities of color, have faced inequalities in cancer care that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.
Doctors are raising their concerns about the long-term impact of these delays, noting potential increases in advanced-stage cancers due to postponed screenings and treatments. Research has consistently shown that this situation may lead to worse cancer detection and survival rates.
Final Thoughts
With new awareness campaigns and screening guidelines in place, now is the perfect opportunity to urge those in Rock Hill and beyond to prioritize their health. By getting screened for colon cancer, individuals can ensure they’re taking the necessary steps to protect themselves against this preventable disease. Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’re 45 or older, now’s the time to talk to your doctor about getting screened.
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Additional Resources
- WCCB Charlotte
- Wikipedia: Colorectal cancer
- WSOC TV
- Google Search: Colonoscopy screening
- New York Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Colorectal cancer
- Washington Post
- Google News: Cancer screenings COVID-19
- Herald Online
- Google Scholar: Colon cancer screening
