Let's Talk About Colon Health

Curtis Weaver, MD, is a fellowship-trained gastroenterologist practicing in Grand Rapids.

Q: Starting at what age should people be screened for colorectal cancer?

Dr. Weaver: For individuals at average risk for colorectal cancer, the US Preventive Services Task Force, the American College of Gastroenterology, and the American Cancer Society all recommend starting colorectal cancer screening at the age of 45. If there is a family history of colorectal cancer, it may be recommended to begin screening earlier, and it is important to discuss any family history of cancer with your primary care doctor. A colonoscopy can be done earlier, as well, if there are concerning symptoms.

Q: What exactly is a colonoscopy, how are they beneficial, and when should people first get one?

Dr. Weaver: Colonoscopy is an exam that allows for direct visualization of the large intestine to look for evidence of inflammation and infection, and to rule out colon cancer. It also allows for the detection and removal of colon polyps, which are the precursors to colon cancer. Everyone should have a colonoscopy starting at the age of 45. Some people should have a colonoscopy before age 45 due to family history or symptoms.

Q: How common is colorectal cancer?

Dr. Weaver: Even though the overall incidence and death rate from colorectal cancer has been decreasing — thanks to increased screening over the past several decades — colorectal cancer remains the third most common type of cancer in both men and women, and it is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

Q: What are some common colorectal cancer symptoms people need to know?

Dr. Weaver: Symptoms of colorectal cancer include blood with bowel movements, a change in bowel movements, abdominal pain, and weight loss, but early colorectal cancer may not have any symptoms.

Q: As a gastroenterologist, what types of conditions do you treat?

Dr. Weaver: As a gastroenterologist, I treat all conditions having to do with the digestive tract from the esophagus to the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, as well as the pancreas and liver. This includes gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s disease, cirrhosis, and many others.

Q: What are the treatment options for colorectal cancer, and what surgeries are available?

Dr. Weaver: When found early, colon cancer can be cured with a surgical resection. The surgery that is required depends on the location of the cancer. In certain situations, chemotherapy is recommended in addition to surgery. In more advanced cases, surgery may not be an option, and the main treatment is chemotherapy to slow the progression of the cancer. Often with rectal cancer, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are recommended prior to surgical resection.

Learn more about colorectal cancer screening at Trinity Health.

Take the next step: Talk to your primary care doctor about a referral to a gastroenterologist for a colonoscopy.