Why I Never Skip a Screening, and Neither Should You

In October, I celebrated my one-year work anniversary as the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and Global Head of Medical and Scientific Affairs at Olympus Corporation . It just so happened that around this same time, I hit another milestone – I was due for my colorectal cancer screening colonoscopy. A fitting coincidence considering Olympus’ mission of early detection.

Having practiced abdominal surgery for nearly three decades, I have seen firsthand the life-saving potential of early detection. My colonoscopy was a welcome personal reminder of the importance of our mission and the reason why I value my role in the medtech industry.

I was glad to hear from Gastroenterologist Dr. Lawrence Cohen, who performed my colonoscopy at Mount Sinai West in New York City, that there were no findings -- no polyps. However, I know not everyone has this outcome, which is why screening is so important and why it never crossed my mind to postpone it.

Doubling the Impact

My unique perspective on colonoscopies is deeply intertwined with my dual roles. As the CMO at Olympus, I appreciate the impact of the input that my team and I provide on the care of thousands globally. Our work is developing advanced endoscopy technologies designed to enable physicians to improve early cancer detection and treat gastrointestinal conditions. As a practicing surgeon, I am connected to direct, one-on-one patient care that is profoundly satisfying, and I appreciate the advancements in medical technologies that help move the practice of medicine forward. I see the importance of procedures like colonoscopies from both a broad, systemic perspective and a personal, patient-centered view. While my leadership role is essential in elevating healthcare innovations as the voice of the patient within Olympus, my hands-on surgical work ensures I never lose that personal connection with the people our advancements are designed to help save.

The Influence of Reality

Throughout my career, I have treated and cared for many patients with colorectal cancer. I’ve seen what it looks like when it’s not in the polyp stage, but when it’s more invasive and requires a surgical resection or colectomy. These days, I am seeing a stunning number of patients at a younger age with colorectal cancer. I know what metastatic disease looks like, and I think when you can visualize it like I can, you don’t fear the invasiveness, the bowel prep, or inconvenience of a colonoscopy. I grasp the value of a colonoscopy for my health and strongly advocate for the timeliness of a screening colonoscopy. As a father of young children, I really put a premium on staying fit. This means exercising daily, trying to eat healthy, seeing my primary care physician yearly and following all recommended screening protocols for American men ranging from prostate to skin to colorectal cancer. I need to preserve my health as so many of us do. My recent colonoscopy experience reminds me of the importance of not only practicing what I preach, but also encouraging others to take proactive steps in their health journey. Indeed, this is part of the Olympus purpose. One screening can make a significant difference, potentially saving lives by catching issues early.

The Burden of Colorectal Cancer

Screening colonoscopies, often called the “gold standard” of preventative care, are meant to detect precancerous polyps, which can be removed before developing into cancer. Early screening is crucial for identifying potential health issues before they become serious, allowing for timely intervention and better outcomes.

Many people experience anxiety or fear about this procedure, but all I can say is that the bowel prep is unpleasant. Nothing less. Nothing more. It’s not painful. It supports the success of the procedure. For the colonoscopy itself, you’re not alert whatsoever as you are under anesthesia. That’s why many allude to it being the best nap of their life. It’s just one day, and it can make all the difference.

The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines recommend getting a colonoscopy at the age of 45. With a family history, it’s even younger. According to the American Cancer Society , colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, excluding skin cancers.1 Each year, more than 140,000 people are diagnosed with this type of cancer, and it’s expected to cause more than 53,000 deaths in 2024.1 Despite these sobering statistics, it is also one of the most preventable cancers if detected early.

Championing Early Detection

As I continue in my dual roles as a surgeon and CMO, I remain committed to advocating for and advancing healthcare practices that prioritize early detection and intervention. Together, we can make a major difference in health outcomes, one screening at a time.

1. Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer. American Cancer Society. Colorectal Cancer Statistics | How Common Is Colorectal Cancer? | American Cancer Society. Updated January 2024. Accessed September 2024. LCR53746V01