JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Dr. Ishaan Madhok, a gastroenterologist with Borland Groover, spoke with In Depth with Kristine Bellino about colorectal cancer, colonoscopies and the importance of having open conversations with doctors about changes in bowel habits and family history.
Changes in bowel habits
Changes in bowel movements can sometimes be a sign that something is going on, according to Madhok.
He said changes such as becoming more constipated, experiencing more diarrhea or noticing a significant difference without an obvious explanation, such as a change in diet, are things patients can discuss with their doctors.
Blood in the stool is one symptom Madhok said should get someone’s attention.
“Blood on your stool is certainly a red flag symptom,” Madhok said. “That should be a reason why you should go and see a doctor.”
Other possible symptoms he discussed include unexplained fatigue, weight loss, appetite changes and pain.
Madhok also noted that colorectal cancer screening is intended for people who are not experiencing symptoms, with the goal of identifying potential problems earlier.
Talking openly with your doctor
Madhok said patients should feel comfortable discussing changes in their bowel movements with their doctors, even if the subject may initially feel uncomfortable.
He said some patients have even shown him pictures of their bowel movements when they weren’t sure whether something they noticed was normal.
“This is certainly not the place to be bashful,” Madhok said. “Please, tell us everything.”
Doctors may also ask patients to compare their current bowel habits with what was normal for them several months or even a year earlier. Madhok said some changes can happen gradually, making them less noticeable over time.
Family history and polyps
Another part of the conversation focused on family history, including whether parents or siblings have had polyps found during a colonoscopy.
Polyps are growths that can form inside the colon. Madhok explained that there are different types, including some that are benign and others that are considered precancerous.
He said most colon cancers begin as polyps. During a colonoscopy, doctors can identify and remove polyps, which can help prevent some from eventually developing into cancer.
Madhok said knowing whether a family member has had polyps can be helpful, but the type and size can also be important. Advanced adenomas, for example, can affect when a person should begin screening and which screening method may be appropriate.
He encouraged patients who know a family member has had polyps to find out more about what doctors found.
When does screening begin?
For people at average risk, Madhok said colorectal cancer screening generally begins at age 45.
Those with a family history of colorectal cancer, advanced polyps or certain gastrointestinal conditions may be advised to begin screening earlier.
Madhok previously spoke with WOKV about colorectal cancer among younger adults and why screening recommendations have changed.
READ: Borland Groover doctor answers colonoscopy questions, encourages screening on JMN In-Depth
During his latest conversation with Bellino, Madhok also emphasized discussing changes or concerns with a doctor and learning more about family medical history.
For those who have reached screening age, he recommended talking with a doctor about the different screening options and which may be appropriate based on individual risk factors.
“Any screening is better than no screening,” Madhok said.
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