Proper screening prevents development of colon cancer
By Darleen Principe darleen@theacorn.com

Dr. David Rosenfeld

Colorectal cancer, more commonly known as colon cancer, is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the Western world, claiming more than 50,000 lives in the United States each year.

But the fact is, colorectal cancer is both curable and preventable.

Dr. David Rosenfeld, proctologist and colorectal surgeon with Simi Valley Hospital, said the high mortality rate from colon cancer might be partially due to the public's general discomfort in discussing the signs and symptoms of the disease.

"People aren't getting screened," he said. "But it's preventable if you get a colonoscopy."

In 2007, the American Cancer Society estimated that colorectal cancer affected more than 150,000 Americans. About 95 percent of the cases were caused by the formation of polyps- or abnormal growths- in the colon.

But Rosenfeld said that unlike most cancers, colorectal cancer has a 90 percent to 95 percent chance of being completely cured if treated in the early stages. Even in the later stages, the cure rate can reach as high as 75 percent if accompanied by chemotherapy or radiation treatment.

"It's slow growing, so there's a chance that even if it's spread, you can still live a long life," he said. "It's just not as aggressive as other forms of cancer."

According to Rosenfeld, average risk men and women with no family history, signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer should still receive a colonoscopy or some other form of screening at age 50.

Those at high risk of the disease- people of any age with a personal or family history of colon cancer or who are experiencing symptoms like bleeding or unexplained weight loss- should consult a physician immediately.

A colonoscopy, which requires the use of a lighted tube to examine the inside of the colon, works as both a screening tool and a preventive measure.

The procedure is relatively painless, and polyps can be removed at the same time.

"If I find a polyp and I remove it, I just prevented a cancer," he said. "If I don't look and you have a polyp, it's going to continue growing until it becomes a cancer."

Other forms of colon cancer screening include the fecal occult blood test, the fecal immunochemical test, the flexible sigmoidoscopy procedure, the double-contrast barium enema and the virtual colonoscopy.

Besides a screening for the disease, Rosenfeld recommends a sensible diet that is high in fiber, plenty of water and regular exercise to help keep the colon healthy.

Dr. David Rosenfeld is boardcertified in colon and rectal surgery.

He joined Simi Valley Hospital's medical staff in August 2007 after 10 years of service at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

He lives in West Hills with his wife and three sons, and currently runs a private practice at 2650 Jones Way, Ste. 25, Simi Valley.

He can be reached at (805) 579-8972.