Why Colon Cancer Screenings Are Important

Let Dr. Kevin Marks and the team at Premier Gastroenterology in Katy, TX help you be proactive in your health with a colon cancer screening. It might save your life.

Importance of Colon Cancer Screenings 

Most people should begin having colon cancer screenings at the age of 45. People who have a family history of colon cancer, are of higher-risk races, or have other risk factors might need to begin screenings earlier. Why is colon cancer screening so important? Dr. Marks and the team at Premier Gastroenterology of Katy, TX share three essential reasons below.

1. Colon Cancer Can Be Fatal 

Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer and is actually the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. This type of cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the rectum or the colon, which can occur in anyone.

Even those with healthy habits and no family history of cancer can develop colon cancer. Though some factors can put you at higher risk, assuming you have no risk at all can lead to a fatal outcome.

2. It Is Highly Treatable

Though it can be fatal, colon cancer is also treatable when it’s caught early enough. Screenings can detect precancerous polyps so that they can be removed before they ever become cancerous. They can also find cancerous cells very early so that treatment can begin, which has a much higher success rate.

3. You Might Not Notice Any Symptoms 

Many people visit the doctor for testing when something is wrong. They’ll explain their symptoms to the care provider, who can then determine what tests to perform or what treatment to begin.

Unfortunately, this is not the way to go with colon cancer. It is often referred to as a silent killer because it doesn’t always produce symptoms, especially in the early stages. If you do notice symptoms, they can be easily overlooked as symptoms of something else.

For example, changes in bowel habits, stomach cramps, bloating, low back pain, and fatigue are all symptoms associated with colon cancer. Unfortunately, they are also associated with digestive issues, viruses, reactions to some foods, stress, and other issues.

In short, by the time you notice that something is wrong and you go in for care, the cancer might be in its late stages. Screenings provide a proactive method for ensuring you don’t suffer.

Schedule your colon cancer screening with Dr. Marks at Premier Gastroenterology in Katy, TX by calling (281) 392-0425 today.