Myths About Colorectal Cancer Screening

Get Screened Today for Colorectal Cancer

By Diana Zayas, patient navigator, Montefiore Einstein Colorectal Cancer Screening Program 

Bronx Voice 

April 3, 2024

BRONX - Each March, we strive to raise awareness about the importance of colorectal cancer screening. Why? Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, and it’s the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women. 

Far too often, both here and nationally, the cancer is diagnosed in the emergency room rather than during preventive screenings when there’s the best chance for treatment. Here in the Bronx, we see approximately 600 new cases each year.

As a patient navigator my job is to help people schedule appointments and understand what it’s like to have a colorectal cancer screening. Frequently I hear concerns from patients that too many other people in our community believe and prevent them from seeking a colorectal cancer screening.

 

MYTH 1

I don’t have insurance coverage so if I have cancer, I won’t be able to receive treatment.

At our Montefiore Einstein Colorectal Cancer Screening Program, we offer free screenings for age-appropriate patients, and if there’s a cancer diagnosis, we provide prompt treatment. We also work with patients to help them apply for Emergency Medicaid, which is processed quickly when there’s a cancer diagnosis.

MYTH 2

I’m not old enough to have a screening.

Just last year, the national colorectal cancer screening guidelines were updated, lowering the recommended age to begin screening to 45 years-old. This change was made because more young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The earlier that cancerous or precancerous cells are detected, the better the chances at preventing or treating the disease.

MYTH 3

I don’t have any symptoms so I don’t think I have cancer.

People with early-stage colorectal cancer don’t have any symptoms. When people notice blood in bowels, the cancer is more advanced and has a significantly lower chance of survival. 

MYTH 4

A colonoscopy is the only option for colorectal cancer screening.

A screening colonoscopy, which allows us to directly see the colon and remove precancerous growths or polyps, is recommended by the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. In fact, a colonoscopy is the ONLY form of cancer screening that can both diagnose cancer and treat it by removing polyps during the exam! 

We also offer non-invasive testing options as well, including fecal immunochemical tests (FIT Tests), that use a person’s stool. These tests are performed at home by placing a bowel movement in a special box that’s sent to our Pathology department. This test looks for hidden blood from the lower intestines. 

Of the FIT tests distributed by our primary care practices and examined in-house, we’ve seen a 10 percent positivity rate in our community. While most tests are negative, people who do have a positive test result are referred to our colorectal cancer screening program for a colonoscopy to check for precancerous or cancerous growths or polyps. Bottom line – if there is a positive result, a colonoscopy is still required to remove the cancer.

MYTH 5

I don’t have time.

We understand that time is a precious, limited resource. We have made it easier to schedule colorectal screening appointments by offering weekend hours across our Bronx hospitals and outpatient sites. We perform up to 300 screenings each weekend. 

We want the community to know that you will not be alone through this process. Patient Navigators are trained to communicate with patients and providers to get the necessary steps taken care of, including scheduling appointments, and are trusted resources and advocates throughout the process. 

Colorectal cancer is Preventable, Treatable, and Beatable when detected early. We ask that anyone who lives in the Bronx and is 45 and above, to reach out to our Colorectal Cancer Screening Program at 718-920-7183. Don't delay, call today!