The Importance of Regular Colon Cancer Screenings

Work with Dr. Kevin Marks of Premier Gastroenterology and complete your colon cancer screening in Katy, TX.

Why Do You Need Regular Colon Cancer Screening?

Any cancer diagnosis is deeply upsetting, but it’s important to remember that overcoming that disease is entirely possible. Colon cancer, in particular, has the highest survival rates for any form of that dreaded disease. If you want to increase your odds of beating that disease, you must invest time in colon cancer screening.

Colon cancer screening is crucial because it can detect the presence of the disease above before it registers any symptoms. You don’t have to wait until the disease has progressed to a point where you are already feeling ill. By catching the disease as early as possible, your doctor can remove the precancerous polyps before they have a chance to cause problems.

You should also participate in regular colon cancer screening because the cost of treating the disease above can be difficult to shoulder. Compare the cost of treating colon cancer to screening, and it’s clear that one option is superior.

In rare cases, screening can also help determine if you may need to consider unconventional treatments for your disease. Conventional forms of colon cancer treatment don’t deliver the expected results for everyone. You can open up more time to explore your treatment options if you catch your disease early.

Remaining proactive is critical in the fight against cancer. Make sure you are doing your part by setting regular screening appointments. Reach out to Dr. Marks of Premier Gastroenterology to schedule your colon cancer screening appointment in Katy, TX.

When Should You Begin Colon Cancer Screening?

Now that you know about the benefits of colon cancer screening, it’s time to answer the question of when it should start. Generally speaking, screening for colon cancer should begin when you are around 45 years old. Still, there are times when screening should begin earlier. Maintaining an open line of communication with your gastroenterologist is ideal because they can determine if you should undergo early screening.

The recommended frequency of colon cancer screening also differs from one person to the next. If you don’t have an increased chance of developing colon cancer, your doctor may recommend screening once every 10 years. Those who are at greater risk should go through screening more often. Intervals for some tests may be as short as three years.

Screening for colon cancer should continue until you reach 75 years old. Once past that point, your doctor will determine if you need additional screenings for the disease.

Call 281-392-0425 to book your colon cancer screening appointment with Dr. Marks of Premier Gastroenterology in Katy, TX.