Your Health

Colonoscopy: Clarifying Misperceptions About A Potentially Lifesaving Procedure

Posted: 9/30/2011

A free and easy-to-understand guide can help people learn more about colonoscopy.

(NAPSI)—Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States, behind lung cancer, and 80 to 90 million Americans are considered at risk. The American Cancer Society recommends that people begin receiving colon cancer screenings at age 50, or earlier if they have certain risk factors, yet a recent survey conducted by the Colon Cancer Alliance found that seven out of 10 people age 50 years or older who have been recommended to be screened, still have not had a colonoscopy, primarily due to fears.

“This year alone, colon cancer will be responsible for about 49,380 deaths and about 141,210 Americans will be diagnosed, yet many are reluctant to undergo screening by colonoscopy,” said Andrew Spiegel, CEO of the Colon Cancer Alliance. “Colon cancer is highly treatable when detected early, and our most significant barrier in having patients screened is to help them overcome their fear of colonoscopy.”

For patients, learning that they need a colonoscopy can be scary, and preparing for it may seem like a tough task. To help educate patients and help them better understand the colonoscopy procedure, Salix Pharmaceuticals, in partnership with the Colon Cancer Alliance, has developed an easy-to-read, free resource. “Colonoscopy For Dummies®” puts into simple terms what to expect when preparing for and undergoing a colonoscopy. The guide is designed to help patients address misperceptions about the procedure, provide tips on how to discuss colonoscopy with your doctor, and answer the most common and some not-so-common questions including:

• How long will the procedure last?

• Do I have to take a colonoscopy preparation?

• How much does it cost and will my insurance cover it?

• Can I wear makeup when I go for a colonoscopy?

“Many patients experience fear, anxiety or concern when told by their physician that they need a colonoscopy,” said Dr. Carol Burke, director of the Center for Colon Polyp and Cancer Prevention, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the Cleveland Clinic, and technical editor of “Colonoscopy For Dummies®.” “The more we can educate patients on the benefits of colonoscopy, the better we can help address common misperceptions, and hopefully more patients will have the procedure as a result.”

“Colonoscopy For Dummies®” is available for free download at www.ColonoscopyForDummies.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ColonoscopyForDummies. For more information about colon cancer visit the Colon Cancer Alliance at www.ccalliance.org.