gene ral hea lth It is a common misconception that bowel cancer is an ‘old person's disease'. Australian and international research is showing a worrying global trend towards a higher incidence of bowel cancer in younger people. Between 1990 and 2010 bowel cancer rates doubled in 20-29 year old Australians and increased by 35% in 30-39 year olds. More than 1,000 'younger' Australians are diagnosed with bowel cancer each year. So bowel cancer risk is certainly something people of all ages need to be aware of. But the good news is that bowel cancer is preventable, and if detected early can be successfully treated in 90% of cases. Being aware of bowel cancer, and the steps to prevent and detect it early, are paramount. Early detection offers the best hope. FOBT The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program is a population-based screening program for bowel cancer that began in Australia in 2006. The program uses the immunochemical Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) to detect blood in bowel motions. Currently the program is only offered to those turning 50, 55, 60 and 65 years of age. People turning 70 will be included in 2015. Test kits are mailed to people eligible for the program. The FOBT involves using the test kit to take samples, collected in the privacy of your home, from two or three bowel motions. These samples are sent to a pathologist for analysis and results are then sent to you and your GP. If blood is detected, further tests may be required. What does the individual need to be mindful of? Risk of bowel cancer increases significantly after the age of 50. You are also at a greater risk if you have: • Previous history of polyps in the bowel • Previous history of bowel cancer • Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (i.e. Crohn’s disease) • A strong family history of bowel cancer • Familial adenomatous polyposis or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome) • Increased insulin levels or diabetes. If you are at increased risk, discuss surveillance options with your doctor. An FOBT is recommended every two years from age 50 even if you have no symptoms or family history of bowel cancer. If you are aged 50 years and over and have symptoms and or family/personal history you might require a colonoscopy. If you are not eligible for a free Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) under the national screening program, you can still be tested. Contact your GP to discuss options. Your GP can request a FOBT, which is eligible for a Medicare benefit. Most pathology practices bulk bill for this test. Some pharmacies have FOBT kits available for purchase over the counter. Some pathology services or health organisations provide online options for purchasing a kit. You should always discuss the use of FOBT kits with your GP before purchasing a kit. Bleeding can come from haemorrhoids – so don’t panic, speak to your doctor about your concerns. For more information call the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program Information Line on 1800 118 868 or visit www.cancerscreening.gov.au Bowel cancer risk factors, include : • age - people 50 years and over are at higher risk of developing bowel cancer • previous history of polyps in the bowel • previous history of bowel cancer • chronic inflammatory bowel disease (i.e. Crohn’s disease) • a strong family history of bowel cancer • familial adenomatous polyposis or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome) • increased insulin levels or diabetes. pm Excellence in women’s For more than 22 years Dr Andrew Cary has been providing care to women of the Gold Coast. As a specialist gynaecologist and obstetrician, Dr Cary is able to assist with all women’s health concerns from heavy periods, endometriosis and hysterectomy to contraception, antenatal care and delivery. He has a particular interest in high-risk obstetric and antenatal care. Dr Cary is a respected IVF specialist, having assisted many women and couples to achieve their dream of parenthood. He is a co-founder of Queensland Fertility Group Gold Coast. ‘As a father of three children, I understand both the trials and rewards of parenthood, and I am committed to every health care partner’s journey into conception, pregnancy and delivery.’ Dr Cary specialises in the following types of surgery, among others: • IVF egg collection • Complex embryo transfer • Hysteroscopy and surgery of the endometrium (womb-lining) • Laparoscopy • Tubal Sterilisation • Endometrial ablation. ‘I hope to be able to assist and guide you through your obstetric, gynaecology and reproductive care.’ Suite 10, Pindara Place, Carrara St, Benowa, Qld, 4217 Email: reception@drcary.com.au | Phone: 07 5597 3770 | Web: www.drcary.com.au
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Five
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