Rates of colorectal cancer are rising among working-age adults, making it more important than ever to pay attention to your health and schedule routine screenings. Having regular colorectal cancer screenings remains the most effective way to reduce risk, while innovative technologies are making these screenings even more effective. 

Through the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI), advancements in health technology are transforming how healthcare providers deliver high-quality patient care, and gastroenterology is no exception. Healthcare systems, including Berkshire Health Systems (BHS), are incorporating AI into gastrointestinal (GI) procedures to improve patient outcomes and support early detection of conditions, including colon cancer. 

By integrating AI into gastroenterology, existing exams and equipment have been further enhanced, thus improving the quality and accuracy of diagnostic evaluations performed by healthcare providers. At BHS, AI has been successfully incorporated into general GI procedures, including upper endoscopies for diagnosing Barrett’s esophagus, and small bowel studies using wireless capsule endoscopy to identify small bowel issues.  

An example of an AI system enhancing colonoscopy care at BHS is called GI Genius. This computer-aided detection tool assists gastroenterologists in identifying polyps during colonoscopies, providing a “second set of eyes” to help spot areas of concern that may require closer review.  

The goal of every gastroenterologist is to reduce patients’ risk of developing colon cancer by increasing the detection of precancerous polyps. The system analyzes the same live images viewed by the physician but processes the entire visual field instantly. During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a thin, flexible tube to capture images of the colon and rectum, allowing them to check for polyps or signs of cancer. While a human examiner must scan each section of the image in sequence, GI Genius continuously evaluates the video feed in real time, highlighting areas that may indicate the presence of polyps and drawing the physician’s attention for closer inspection. GI Genius does not perform the colonoscopy itself but serves as a supportive tool, reviewing the same images to assist the examiner. Its design helps reduce the likelihood of missing polyps that could develop into problems before the patient’s next routine screening.

The adenoma detection rate (ADR) is a key quality metric for colonoscopies, indicating how often a physician identifies and removes precancerous polyps during the procedure. On average, the benchmark for ADRs is 30% for men and 20% for women, according to the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Tools like this help improve these detection rates, with studies showing that it can increase ADRs by 14–30%, leading to earlier detection and reducing the risk of interval colorectal cancers that can& develop between routine screenings.

Technology that aids in detection is therefore essential in supporting healthcare providers’ efforts to improve patient outcomes. While these advancements enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of colon cancer prevention, patients also play a vital role in protecting their digestive health. Regular colonoscopy screenings are recommended for adults aged 45 and older, but there are many ways to support your colon health alongside, and even before, you need a colonoscopy.  

Maintaining a nutritious, fiber rich diet that includes foods like beans and whole grain bread can help reduce the risk of colon cancer. It is also important to limit processed meats such as hot dogs and bacon. Regular exercise supports overall health and a healthy weight while also supporting the colon by improving blood circulation throughout the gastrointestinal system, which can lower the risk of colon issues. Finally, avoiding tobacco use is another key step in keeping your colon healthy. 

This Colon Cancer Awareness Month make your health a priority by taking care of your colon. The best thing you can do for your body is to stay up to date with your screenings and contact your healthcare provider with any concerns.  

James Curtiss, MD, is a Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at North Adams Regional Hospital and Berkshire Medical Center