JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- The gastroenterology clinic at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, is encouraging arctic warriors to get screened as part of Colon Cancer Awareness Month.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States for cancers that affect both men and women.
“Colon cancer unfortunately is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths every year with more than 150,000 new cases diagnosed annually,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Martin Kaszubowski, 673d Medical Operation Squadron gastroenterologist.
The CDC finds that more than 50,000 people die from it each year.
“Five to six percent of the population will get colon cancer in their lifetime,” said Kaszubowski.
“Fortunately, it is a preventable disease with excellent screening options available.”
According to the CDC, more than 90 percent of colorectal cancers occur in those 50 and older. Additionally, they say if everyone 50 and older had a regular screening test, at least 60 percent of deaths from this cancer could be avoided.
“Screening typically starts at the age of 50 unless you have a first-degree relative with colon cancer; then it’s recommended you begin earlier,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Austin Nelson, 673d Medical Group gastroenterologist. “The best preventative test for colon cancer is a colonoscopy, which can detect pre-cancerous lesions which when removed, can mitigate cancer development. This said, multiple options are available to screen for colon cancer and should be discussed with your primary care doctor.”
The gastroenterologists add that the scary thing about colon cancer can be the lack of symptoms.
“Frequently, there are no symptoms at all. However, when cancer is present, the most common symptom is blood in your stool,” said Nelson. “This can lead to anemia and when it progresses, can give abdominal pain and nausea.”
“The best prevention test that is available is a colonoscopy. At JBER, these tests are performed by a physician who specializes in colon cancer (gastroenterologist),” said Nelson. “There are certain stool tests that are available that can detect current cancer in your colon and are options to screen for cancer. However, as mentioned, a colonoscopy has the ability to detect pre-cancerous lesions and remove them before it is too late.”
To schedule a screening, contact your primary care provider and request a referral to the gastroenterologist. The JBER Appointment line is 580-2778 to schedule an appointment with your primary care provider. If you schedule your screening colonoscopy during the months of March or April and mention this article or JBER’s radio ad, you will get an entry into a drawing for a gift card.
Both male and female gastroenterology doctors are available to provide full GI services on JBER.
“Many times, there is a stigma associated with a colonoscopy,” said Kaszubowski. “Don't be afraid. These tests are very well-tolerated and can be life-saving procedures. We are open to all active duty, retirees, dependents, and many VA patients.”