Colon Cancer Screening and Prevention in Columbus, GA
Colon Cancer Prevention for Patients Throughout West Central Georgia and East Central Alabama
Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and almost always starts as a polyp. Colon cancer and colon polyps affect men and women of all races and ethnicities equally. The most effective way to prevent colon cancer or colon cancer-related death is early polyp detection and removal.
According to the American Cancer Society, when colon cancer is detected early before spreading, the 5-year patient survival rate, or the chance of living at least 5 years following treatment, is at 90%. If cancer is detected after it has spread, the 5-year survival rate drops significantly.
Men and women 45 years old or older should begin scheduling colonoscopies to screen for the presence of colon polyps and colon cancer, even if they feel otherwise healthy, for monitoring and early detection. Younger people should consider screening if warning signs or other risk factors are at play.
The gastroenterologists at Southeastern Gastroenterology offer colonoscopy screenings and removal of colon polyps to reduce or eliminate your potential of developing colon cancer.
settingsSchedule a Colonoscopy or Colon Cancer Screening Today: 706-655-8800
What Are Colon Polyps?
Colon polyps are small growths that form on the inner lining of the colon. They range in size from less than a centimeter to several inches in diameter.
There are two common types of polyps: hyperplastic polyps and adenomatous polyps.
- Hyperplastic polyps: Noncancerous, or not associated with cancer development. These are usually smaller in diameter (less than 5 millimeters), flat or slightly raised, and have a flat or smooth appearance.
- Adenomatous polyps: Associated with cancer development, although most adenomatous polyps do not develop into cancer. These are usually larger, are tubular or finger-like in shape, and can appear bumpy, like cauliflower.
Not much is known about the reason polyps in the colon develop, but experts suggest that diet plays a significant role. People who stick to a diet that is high in fat and low in fiber increase their likelihood of developing colon polyps.
Colon Cancer Screening and Polyp Removal From Southeastern Gastroenterology
Getting screened for colon polyps is crucial to understanding the condition of your colon and overall health. Should we detect polyps, we will begin a treatment plan to reduce or eliminate your risk of developing colon cancer.
If you are 45 or older, are showing signs of colon issues, or are at an increased risk of developing colon cancer, undergoing a colonoscopy is a vital step to determine the presence of noncancerous or precancerous polyps in your colon.
Colonoscopy
During a colonoscopy, your GI doctor is able to check the state of your colon and detect the presence of any polyps or troublesome issues. Should you have polyps, we can remove them during the procedure, reducing your risk of any polyps transforming into cancerous growths.
The colonoscopy process is as follows:
Preparation
You will be instructed to follow a clear liquid diet for 24-48 hours before your procedure. You will also be instructed to take laxatives or enemas to clear your bowels. You may also be instructed to pause any medication regimens until your procedure is completed.
Procedure
You will be sedated with general anesthesia before the procedure begins. As you lie on a table in a gown, your GI doctor will insert a colonoscope (a thin, flexible tube) into your rectum. This tube will include a camera and a light so that the doctor can see the structures of your colon and check for polyps. Should you have any polyps or other abnormalities, your doctor can address them through polyp removal or other treatment solutions. Once treated, the doctor will remove the colonoscope.
Recovery
Following your colonoscopy, you will need to rest for a few hours. You may experience cramping or bloating for a few hours, and you will want to resume your regular diet and general activities gradually.
Colon Cancer Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors
Colon cancer or colon polyps can go unnoticed, or they can present noticeable signs. The following are common symptoms, causes, and risk factors associated with colon polyps or colon cancer.
Colon Cancer Symptoms
Colon cancer symptoms can present like symptoms for other issues. Pay attention to signs like:
- Persistent changes in bowel movements like diarrhea, constipation, or narrowed stools
- Sensations of needing to poop even after you have relieved yourself
- Rectal bleeding
- Dark stools
- Blood in the stool
- Cramping/abdominal pain
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Colon Cancer Causes
Colon cancer is often associated with causes like:
- Family history
- Genetics
- High-fat and low-fiber diets
- Obesity or excessive body weight
- Lack of physical activity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Exposure to certain chemicals
- Chronic inflammation in the bowels (inflammatory bowel disease)
Colon Cancer Risk Factors
You’re more at risk of developing colon cancer if you:
- Are 45 years old or older
- Have a family history of colon cancer or polyps
- Have colon polyps
- Have other GI issues like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Eat a high-fat and low-fiber diet
- Consume too much alcohol
- Smoke
- Maintain a sedentary lifestyle
- Are obese or overweight
Keep in mind that even if these symptoms, causes, or risk factors do not seem to apply to you, it’s still vital to get screened for colon cancer to ensure your health and well-being.
Southeastern Gastroenterology Cares for Your Colon and Intestinal Health
Southeastern Gastroenterology is dedicated entirely to your colon and GI health for the benefit of your overall well-being. We strive to make sure you have a positive experience receiving care from our GI doctors by combining fast appointment scheduling with compassionate and honest communication and cutting-edge solutions. In addition to our colon cancer screenings and colon polyp removal, we offer healthcare solutions for all other GI conditions you may be experiencing or suffering from.
- Acid Reflux and Heartburn
- Barrett’s Esophagus
- Celiac Disease
- Crohn’s Disease
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Other Conditions
Additional Conditions We Treat
- In-Office Services
- In-Hospital Procedures
- Pediatric Services
- Endoscopy Services