Let’s Celebrate A Healthy Digestive System
If you’re looking for something to celebrate this March, make an appointment with Texas Digestive Disease Consultants and celebrate Colon Cancer Awareness Month with a screening colonoscopy! It’s probably not a celebration you’ve ever heard of or considered, but it’s time to change that.
The Facts
Colon cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in both men and women, in addition to being one of the leading causes of cancer related deaths. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 50,000 people will die from colorectal cancer in 2017. Colon Cancer Awareness Month serves to educate people about the causes of colon cancer and the best ways to prevent it. One of the most powerful tools that doctors have to detect and treat colon cancer is a colonoscopy exam.
The Treatment
Colonoscopies are routine exams that all men and women should receive every 10 years beginning at the age of 50. If you have a genetic predisposition or other risk factors for colon cancer, let your doctor know and they might recommend beginning the exams before turning 50. The exam is quick and is usually done under local anesthesia, so you can typically go home shortly after the exam is concluded. It consists of a thin, lighted tube that the doctor inserts in the rectum. The tube allows the doctor to view the entire large intestine, including the rectum, colon, and lower end of the small intestine. The doctor will be looking for small growths, called polyps. If found, the doctor will remove the polyp during the procedure. Then a biopsy is performed to determine if the polyp is cancerous, precancerous, or benign. Based on the findings your doctor will recommend future testing schedules and treatment.
How Can TDDC Help?
The most important aspect of colon cancer screening is to not wait until it’s too late. Visit the Texas Digestive Disease Consultants to discuss if you have a family history of the disease, have a change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, unusual cramping or pain, weakness, or unintended weight loss, as these things may indicate cancer or a predisposition to the disease. We will put your mind at ease and help you figure out the world of colorectal cancer and how you can stay healthy. You can find one of our convenient locations here .