A Blood Test That Detects Colorectal Cancer
Researchers in Israel have found a new blood test that detects early colorectal cancer and precancerous adenomas.
This is very exciting news, but don’t cancel your colonoscopy yet. The blood test is still under investigation and is not yet available. Colonoscopy remains the best way to detect early colon cancer, the second leading cause of cancer deaths.
The current recommendations are for all patients to have screening colonoscopy at age 50 and every 10 years thereafter. Some physicians, however, recommend more frequent screening at 5-year intervals. Also, those at increased risk for colon cancer may be advised to undergo colonoscopy at an earlier age with more frequent follow-ups. Check with your primary care provider to find out what is best for you.
Read more about colonoscopy
Source: “Blood Test Detects Colorectal Cancer”, MedPage Today, January 21, 2010
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