It’s easier than ever to prevent and treat colorectal cancer
It’s important to remember that colorectal cancer is preventable when you take the proper precautions, and curable when found and treated early. At Montefiore Einstein, we are committed to detecting cancer as early as possible, even before symptoms appear, so you can take steps to protect your health. Our robust colorectal cancer screening program offers testing at multiple locations and community screening events throughout the year. You can expect our compassionate and world-renowned specialists to provide personalized screening in a supportive setting. And you’ll benefit from the latest, most advanced technology available.
Know your risk factors.
For people at low or average risk for colorectal cancer, the recommendation is for screenings to now start at age 45, with testing repeated every ten years up through age 75. People at high risk, especially those with a family history of colorectal cancer, should start screenings earlier and repeat them more often, on average, until age 85.
You may be at increased risk for colorectal cancer if you:
- A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps
- If an immediate family member has colorectal cancer, your doctor may recommend that you start screening at age 40 or 10 years earlier than the age at which the family member was diagnosed.
- Have Lynch Syndrome
- Racial and Ethnic Background
- People who are of African, Hispanic, or Ashkenazi Jewish descent are at increased risk for colorectal cancer.
- Have inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Have Type 2 diabetes
Time for you to get tested for colon cancer?
Choose from Three Colorectal Screening Options
The three main testing options are a colonoscopy, a virtual colonoscopy, or at home stool test.
During this outpatient procedure, the gastroenterologist can visually inspect the entire colon and rectum region, identify and remove polyps, and biopsy any mass that may be present. A colonoscopy is the most conclusive procedure for polyp removal and the best way to identify colorectal cancer in its earliest stages.
A virtual colonoscopy uses an advanced Computerized Tomography (CT) scan to generate a 3D image of the colon and surrounding organs where radiologists can look for any abnormalities. Home prep for the virtual colonoscopy is easy, and you are able to drive yourself home after the scan. It is also an excellent option for those who cannot be sedated because of pre-existing medical conditions. If a polyp or lesion is seen on the imaging scan, you will need to have a traditional colonoscopy.
Stool screening tests can be done in the comfort of your home, an important convenience factor, but in the event of a positive result, a colonoscopy will be required in order to rule out possible colorectal cancer. Stool-based tests are a reasonable first option for those who are at average risk for colorectal cancer and are experiencing no symptoms. There are two types of stool-based tests:
- FIT: There are two types of Fecal Immunohistochemical Test (FIT) that screen for colon cancer through the detection of blood in the stool. The gFOBT (guaiac-based fecal occult blood test) detects blood in the stool using a chemical called guaiac, while Immunochemical FOBT uses special antibodies to test the stool for blood. The immunochemical FOBT does not require a restriction in diet or medicines. If the stool-based test is positive for blood, a colonoscopy must then be performed as blood in the stool is a possible early sign of colorectal cancer.
- Multi-targeted Stool Test: This test identifies DNA mutations in the cells of a stool sample. If DNA mutations are detected, this could be an early sign of colorectal cancer and a colonoscopy must be performed.
Count On Our Patient Navigators To Get the Colon Care You Need
Montefiore Einstein offers state-of-the art facilities for cancer screening and a world-class team of specialists focused on colorectal health. We also offer access to Patient Navigators, experts who will guide you through the entire screening and diagnostic process.
Our Patient Navigators are here to:
- Provide education on the colorectal cancer screening process and what to expect
- Address any questions you have regarding procedures, and explain the benefits, alternatives, and risks
- Schedule appointments at one of our sites
- Review all instructions before the procedure
To meet our Patient Navigators and learn more about how to prevent colorectal cancer, call 718-920-7183.
Keep Your Colon Rollin’
We’re out in the community all year long with important messages about colorectal cancer prevention, screening, and treatment. Watch how we’re making a difference by raising awareness about the latest advances in colorectal care.
Schedule your appointment at one of these convenient locations
Montefiore Einstein Hospital—Wakefield Campus
Advanced Endoscopy Center
Montefiore Nyack
Montefiore Einstein Hospital, Moses Campus
Montefiore Einstein Hospital—Wakefield Campus
NY GI Center
Schedule a Screening Appointment
Call 718-920-7183 or click on the button below to schedule your appointment and decide which screening option is right for you. Early screening saves lives.