Early detection of colon cancer by colonoscopy may be more challenging than prior studies have shown. A recent study in the Annals of Internal Medicine concludes that nearly 30 to 40 percent of colorectal cancers may not be detected by a colonoscopy. This is a prevention rate far less than that reported historically by doctors. The study further concluded that nearly all cancers on the right side of the colon and about one-third of cancers in the left side of the colon are not visible from the study. The study includes data from colonoscopies performed by internists as well as gastroenterologists, which may have some bearing on the outcome. Despite these new findings, researchers still strongly recommend that patients continue to have the test as a preventative measure.
If you or a loved one has concerns that their colon cancer was not timely diagnosed, call Pierce & Thornton to discuss your potential case.