Colon cancer screening and prevention approaches vary based on individual risk factors and personal preferences. Each strategy offers different advantages and requirements for optimal effectiveness.
| Strategy Type | Primary Method | Screening Frequency | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Visualization | Colonoscopy | Every 10 years | Gold standard; allows polyp removal during procedure |
| Stool-Based Testing | FIT, gFOBT, or sDNA-FIT | Annually to every 3 years | Non-invasive; requires follow-up colonoscopy if abnormal |
| Imaging-Based | CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy) | Every 5 years | Less invasive than colonoscopy; may detect extracolonic findings |
| Combination Approaches | Flexible sigmoidoscopy + FIT | Sigmoidoscopy every 5 years + annual FIT | Targeted screening of lower colon with stool testing |
Modifiable Risk Factors:
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:
Warning Signs to Watch For:
Evidence-based screening recommendations emphasize personalized approaches based on individual risk factors, with standard screening beginning at age 45 for average-risk individuals. At Whole Gut Health, we provide comprehensive screening options and risk assessment to develop the most appropriate prevention strategy for your needs.
Screening options may include:
Colonoscopy - The gold standard allowing direct visualization and polyp removal during the procedure, recommended every 10 years for average-risk individuals.
High-Sensitivity Stool Testing including FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) and sDNA-FIT tests to detect blood or abnormal DNA in stool samples.
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy) - Advanced imaging technique using CT scanning to visualize the colon, recommended every 5 years.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy to examine the lower portion of the colon, often combined with annual stool testing.
Comprehensive Risk Assessment including family history evaluation, genetic counseling when indicated, and lifestyle risk factor analysis.
Advanced Diagnostics for high-risk individuals, including genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes and specialized surveillance protocols.
We customize screening protocols based on your age, family history, personal risk factors, and preferences to ensure optimal prevention outcomes.
Our Three-Phase Prevention Protocol Includes:
1. Assessment and Risk Stratification
2. Personalized Screening and Early Detection
3. Lifestyle Optimization and Risk Reduction
Dr. Alexandra Shustina, NYC’s and Miami’s premier gut health specialist doctor is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist. She is a gut health specialist with training in conventional gastroenterology and functional gut health. She is an expert in the gut microbiome and its role in health and wellness.
At Whole Gut Health, our care is led by experienced functional medicine clinicians with a deep understanding of the gut microbiome and advanced diagnostics. We combine evidence-based strategies from conventional gastroenterology with a functional and integrative lens to give you the clarity and support needed for long-term healing.
Colon cancer prevention encompasses both primary prevention (reducing risk factors that contribute to cancer development) and secondary prevention (early detection through screening before symptoms appear). Since colorectal cancer typically develops from benign polyps over 10-15 years, it's uniquely preventable when polyps are detected and removed before they become malignant.
Direct Visualization
Stool-Based Testing
Imaging-Based
Combination Approaches
Modifiable Risk Factors:
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:
Warning Signs:
Evidence-based screening recommendations emphasize personalized approaches based on individual risk factors, with standard screening beginning at age 45 for average-risk individuals. Testing options include:
Colonoscopy
High-Sensitivity Stool Testing
CT Colonography
Comprehensive Risk Assessment
Screening protocols are customized based on age, family history, personal risk factors, and preferences.
Our comprehensive three-phase prevention protocol includes:
Different risk levels require different screening approaches - high-risk individuals may need earlier initiation, increased frequency, or specific tests like colonoscopy rather than stool-based testing. Personalized risk assessment ensures appropriate screening intensity while avoiding over-screening in low-risk individuals.
While no prevention strategy is 100% effective, studies show that proper screening can reduce colorectal cancer risk by up to 18% and significantly reduce cancer-related deaths. Combined with lifestyle modifications, the vast majority of colorectal cancers can be prevented through early detection and polyp removal.
At Whole Gut Health, we combine evidence-based screening protocols with comprehensive lifestyle and gut health optimization. Our approach focuses on:
Dr. Alexandra Shustina is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist who serves as NYC's and Miami's premier gut health specialist. She has training in both conventional gastroenterology and functional gut health, with expertise in the gut microbiome and its role in health and wellness.
The first step is scheduling a comprehensive consultation where we'll:
Dr. Shustina is no longer performing colonoscopies. We welcome your colonoscopy records. If you need a colonoscopy while under our care, we will refer you to one of our network physicians who will perform your procedure on our behalf.
Contact our office to schedule your initial consultation and begin your proactive approach to colorectal cancer prevention - starting at age 45 for average-risk individuals, or earlier if you have risk factors.
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