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Colorectal cancer is the No. 2 cancer killer in the United States, yet it is one of the most preventable types of cancer. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and BWH’s Department of Gastroenterology is spreading the word about the importance of screening and early detection of colorectal cancer.
“Most colorectal cancers develop from polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon. If polyps grow unnoticed and are not removed, they may become cancerous. Screening tests such as colonoscopies can help detect pre-cancerous polyps, allowing them to be removed before they turn into cancer,” said John Saltzman, MD, medical director of the Endoscopy Center at BWH. “Screening for colon cancer is one of the most gratifying aspects of our jobs, as we know we can prevent colon cancer from developing in our patients.”
The American College of Gastroenterology recommends screening for men and women 50 years and older if there are no risk factors other than age. People with family history of colorectal cancer may be advised to begin screening at an earlier age.
“Last fall, new legislation passed which may affect your health insurance plan’s coverage of colonoscopies,” said Saltzman. “Now, for many plans, colorectal cancer screening for adults over the age of 50 is covered without patients having to pay a co-payment or co-insurance or meet their deductible.”
To find out your specific coverage details, call your individual insurance plan.
To schedule an appointment for a colonoscopy at BWH Endoscopy, call your doctor to order your procedure and then call Endoscopy to schedule at 617-732-7426. For more information about Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, visit www.acg.gi.org