http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/23/health/colonoscopy-prevents-cancer-deaths-study-finds.html?ref=science
This article talks about how colonoscopy prevents death in many patients, which is one of the few cancers that can be prevented with screening. Death rates have been decreasing since the last 20 years or so and possibly due to the screening tests and better treatments. However, earlier research proved that removing cancerous polyps would reduce colorectal cancer. Although doctors cannot determine which method is best, but they do come to terms that it is important to get tests.
Does removing cancerous polyps really save lives? Should patients be required to take these tests even though it is unpleasant and resistant to have them?
I think colonoscopy procedures, while as "unpleasant" as they may be, are super important. Removing the cancerous polyps saves lives as does the examination itself. I would rather undergo the procedure a million times than to die of painful colon cancer! Patients should take these tests if they do not want to die of colorectal cancer...it's really that simple!! You can't force someone to have a colonoscopy but I do believe it really should be required in medical examinations once you reach 45-50 y/o so that you don't have to die of something that could have been prevented.
ReplyDeleteI think if patients with cancer have a choice to continue with this treatment because only they know the pain and discomfort. However, nothing comes easy, if this determines for them to become cancer free and healthy years to come, then with all means perform the procedure! Hopefully in the near future there is a better treament that is less painful and faster than there is today! If not that, then a cure for cancer! With our technology getting better and better each day, hopefully before numbers increase with how many people have cancer, our doctors find a way ti make this possible!!
ReplyDeleteFor any situation involving medicine, and caring for one's body, it is absolutely the patients decision. Thus, it should be the patients decision on whether or not to take these unpleasant tests. Patients should be fully informed and aware of their options, different procedures, and exactly what happens in each procedure. Once the patient is rightfully informed, he or she should then be given the opportunity to make a decision independently.
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