Colon Cancer Screening FAQS

Colon cancer is more common as a person ages, but it can affect you at any time during your life. And it's becoming more common in younger people. While getting screened for any cancer can be a nerve-racking experience, it helps to know exactly what to expect. That's why Dr. Kevin Marks of Premier Gastroenterology in Katy, TX, would like to educate you on the most commonly asked questions about colon cancer screenings.

When Should You Start Getting Colon Cancer Screenings?

As a general rule, you should start getting colon cancer screenings at 50 years of age, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We recommend those who have a family history of colon cancer or polyps. Those with certain inherited conditions may also want to get earlier screenings, but this is something you should discuss with your primary care physician.

Why Should You Get Routine Screenings?  

If you don't have symptoms of colon cancer, you may wonder why you should get routine screenings. Dr. Marks recommends patients come to our Katy, TX, office for screenings to catch precancerous polyps that will eventually turn into cancer. Additionally, when you visit us for routine screenings, there's a better chance we'll catch cancer early when it's most treatable and the treatments are less aggressive. 

Is a Colonoscopy My Only Option?

Some people have a fear of a colonoscopy due to the nature of the test. However, a colonoscopy isn't the only test we can perform. We can use this as a secondary test. Instead, we can offer you a stool test. During this test, you bring us a stool sample in a sterilized cup we provide. Then, our doctor will run testing that looks for blood in the sample, which could be an early sign of colon cancer. If we notice any abnormalities, we then will then order a colonoscopy to inspect your intestines for polyps or tumors. 

What Happens if I Test Positive?

The next stage will be to determine the variety of cancer through a biopsy and stage the cancer. Based on the results, you'll receive appropriate treatment that may include chemotherapy, surgery, immunotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy. This will be with an oncologist who specializes in cancer treatment. 

Colon cancer screening, particularly when done regularly and early, can detect potentially cancerous and cancerous conditions when they're most treatable. And if you're nervous about the testing, it helps to educate yourself about the screening.  

If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment with our Katy, TX, gastroenterologist Dr. Marks and the team at Premier Gastroenterology to schedule a screening by calling (281) 392-0425 today.

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