Colon Cancer Screening

Colon cancer is preventable and is often curable when detected early.

We aim to provide the very best in colon cancer screening. Colon cancer is the second most prevalent cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Screening reduces the risk, and if colon cancer is discovered at an early stage, it is often curable.
 
According to the American College of Gastroenterology, colonoscopy is the preferred screening method. Not only is it a very sensitive method for detecting polyps and cancers, it can also remove the polyps that can turn into cancers in the future. No other method of screening is able to remove polyps from any location in the colon.

When Should You Have A Colonoscopy?

Healthy patients should have a colonoscopy at age 50. Average-risk African American males should undergo colonoscopy at age 45. Many factors such as a family history of colon cancer, colon polyps, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease or rectal bleeding may indicate the need for colonoscopy at an earlier age. If any of these apply to you or you have any concerns about whether or not you need screening, you should discuss it with a qualified medical professional.

Risks Are Low, While Benefits Could Be Life Saving

Colonoscopy has risks, though the overall rate of complication is low. Perforation (tearing) of the colon during the procedure is possible, and if it occurs may necessitate surgery and/or antibiotics. Bleeding, including bleeding that may require transfusion is another potential complication. Throughout the procedure your heart rhythm, blood pressure and breathing are monitored, as these can be affected by the sedation. In general, these risks are very low in healthy individuals, and it is clear that in an appropriately chosen patient population the benefits of the procedure greatly outweigh the risks.

We urge you to take some time to consider having a screening colonoscopy. It may save your life.

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