Insights from Dr. Craig Munroe: Why Colonoscopy Is the Preferred Method of Screening
In this Olympus-sponsored USA Today story, Dr. Craig Munroe, Global Lead for Medical Affairs in GI EndoTherapy at Olympus Corporation and board-certified gastroenterologist, highlights the critical importance of early detection in the battle against colorectal cancer. He shares his insights on how colonoscopies can be lifesaving.
Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed malignancy and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world.1 Its burden is expected to increase by 60%, to more than 2.2 million deaths, by 2030.2
“The good news is that colorectal cancer and adenomas are highly treatable and curable when detected at early stages.”
Dr. Munroe dedicates much of his work to the screening, surveillance, and treatment of colorectal cancer. “The good news is that colorectal cancer and adenomas are highly treatable and curable when detected at early stages,” he wrote USA Today. He added that, “Around 1.9 million colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed worldwide each year.3 Without early diagnosis, nearly half of those cases will be fatal.”4
The article details reasons for undergoing colon cancer screening for eligible patients. It also discussed the rationale for performing colonoscopies, and the current screening age recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force for individuals at average risk. These recommendations may change based on family history or other medical conditions. Individuals are encouraged to speak to their healthcare provider about their individual risk.
For the full story on the importance of a colonoscopy screening, the latest advancements in the field, and available resources, visit USA Today:
1. World Health Organization. Colorectal cancer. July 11, 2023. Accessed December 23, 2024. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/colorectal-cancer.
2. Arnold M, Sierra MS, Laversanne M, et al. Global patterns and trends in colorectal cancer incidence and mortality. Gut. 2017;66(4):683-691.
3. Colorectal Cancer. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/colorectal-cancer. July 11, 2023.
4. Screening and Surveillance for Colorectal Cancer Expanded Information. FASCRS.org. https://fascrs.org/patients/diseases-and-conditions/a-z. Accessed Nov. 25, 2024.
