Anton Bilchik May Recommend a Hybrid Screening Strategy for Colorectal Cancer

Anton Bilchik May Recommend a Hybrid Screening Strategy for Colorectal Cancer

Anton Bilchik wants you to know that researchers are recommending a new, hybrid approach to colorectal cancer screening. In the United States, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death for men and women combined; Anton Bilchik MD and other doctors are dedicated to reducing the number of deaths by improving the accuracy of diagnosis. Physicians used to order one or two single tests – this new research suggests integrating these two tests into one larger hybrid screening strategy to improve individual results.

Colorectal cancer is a tumor in the lining of the colon or rectum. Doctors often perform a fecal immunological test, sometimes called an occult blood test, to look for evidence of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Bleeding can be an indication that a polyp, or growth in the lining of the intestinal tract, is turning into cancer. Physicians may also perform a colonoscopy to look for the presence of polyps that may someday turn cancerous.

The researchers in this study recommend performing these tests at different times to give a more comprehensive view of the individual’s risk for colorectal cancer. Researchers used a simulation model to look at how this hybrid approach might benefit patients; they found instituting annual or bi-annual fecal immunology tests at a younger age (50 to 65 years) and performing a single colonoscopy procedure when a patient is 66 years old could significantly reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer.

Are you concerned about your risk for colorectal cancer? Contact Anton Bilchik or your doctor to learn more about colorectal cancer screening.