
New research stemming from a study at the University of Minnesota, shows that patients diagnosis with cystic fibrosis are at a greater risk of developing colon cancer. While patients are living well into adulthood with cystic fibrosis, they are developing adenomatous polyps at a higher rate than the general population.
Alexander Khoruts, M.D., an associate professor and researcher at the University of Minnesota, reports that a single center study was performed on adult cystic fibrosis patients. These patients underwent screening via colonoscopies and 60% of the male patients had adenomatous polyps as did 11% of female patients. Most of the polyps identified were advanced lesions with high-grade dysplasia.
Want to know more about the connection between cystic fibrosis and colon cancer? Our gastroenterologists at the Colonoscopy Center of Excellence can educate you on what you need to know about colonoscopies in Los Angeles. As the top colonoscopy specialists in Los Angeles, they can also provide excellent care and diagnostic tools.
The Colonoscopy and Colon Cancer Study Findings
Of the participants, half underwent a 3-day colonoscopy preparation, because regular prep is often suboptimal in patients with intestinal secretions. Other patients underwent standard preparations.
Results showed numerous adenomatous polyps that were large in size (more than 1 cm) and with advanced histology. The median number of polyps in men was 4.6 versus 1.5 in women.
Colonoscopy and Colon Cancer Facts
Here are some facts and statistics you may not know about colonoscopies and colon cancer:
- A colonoscopy is one of the most effective ways to screen for colorectal cancer, and the best method of obtaining a biopsy of the colon.
- Studies have shown that colonoscopy detects and removes 98% of colorectal tumors.
- When it comes to colon cancer, early detection really does save lives.
Why the Need for Early Screening for Cystic Fibrosis Patients?
Dr. Khoruts indicates that in this study, “the risk of having polyps for men in this study was twice as high as in the general population, and these patients were relatively young.” The mean age of the patients was 47. For women participants, there was one case of actual adenocarcinoma detected and she ultimately succumbed to the disease.
In all patients who had follow-up colonoscopies within 1 to 3 years, multiple polyps were found.
What is the Recommended Screening Age?
Based on the connection between cystic fibrosis and colon cancer, patients are considered high risk. Adult patients with cystic fibrosis should begin having colonoscopy examinations before age 40 and subsequent colonoscopies should be performed in less than 5 years.
When detected early, colon cancer is very treatable. Common methods of treatment for colorectal cancers include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments. When seeking a colonoscopy specialist in Los Angeles, it is important to seek a doctor who is expertly trained and has the ability to spot a polyp, no matter how small in size.
Contact A Los Angeles Gastroenterologist
At the La Peer Colonoscopy Center of Excellence, we house the best colonoscopy doctors in Los Angeles. Our team of doctors are trained at top schools across the nation, use cutting edge techniques, and most importantly are compassionate about their patients’ health.
If you think you may be at risk of colon cancer, or if you’re concerned about your colorectal health, don’t hesitate to contact the GI and colorectal team at the Colonoscopy Center of Excellence by calling our office today at: tel: 888-837-0459 , or by scheduling an appointment online.
Next, read about what happens during a colonoscopy.