However, I did not promise her I wouldn't blog about my experience, but don't worry, I'll spare you the gory details.
Nonetheless, if I'm truly going to advocate for cancer detection and prevention, I can't do it just for this test; I have to do it for this one, too. (As a BRCA2 mutation carrier, I am at increased risk of several types of cancer besides breast and ovarian. These include pancreatic and primary peritoneal cancer, as well as melanoma. Although some early studies suggested a possible link between BRCA mutations and increased risk of colon cancer, it has not been confirmed in subsequent studies.)
Regardless, having recently turned 51, I fall within the demographic of the general population who should be screened for colon cancer.
And with that, I'll leave you with a few statistics and this public service announcement about screening based on information from the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy:
Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Approximately 150,000 new cases are diagnosed every year in this country and nearly 50,000 people die from the disease. It has been estimated that increased awareness and screening would save at least 30,000 lives each year. Colorectal cancer is highly preventable and can be detected by testing even before there are symptoms. The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy encourages everyone over 50, or those under 50 with a family history or other risk factors, to be screened for colorectal cancer.Oh, one more thing: The propofol-induced nap was amazing and the test results were completely normal.
