There is no time like the present to schedule your colonoscopy. Did you know that colorectal cancer is a largely preventable, treatable and beatable disease? It’s true — but you have to take the first step.
The absolute best way to prevent and detect colorectal cancer is with a screening colonoscopy. We recommend that everyone be screened at the age of 50, earlier if there is a family or personal history of cancer, and at regular intervals after that. For African-Americans, screenings should begin at age 45.
While there are other tests being developed to detect colorectal cancers, only a screening colonoscopy can help you prevent cancer before it happens. Most colon cancers begin in benign colon polyps, or abnormal tissue growths. A benign polyp usually takes several years to become cancerous. During that time, there is a “window of opportunity” to find it and remove it before it turns cancerous. Any polyps found during a screening colonoscopy are removed and tested.
With removal of polyps, we can prevent colorectal cancers. When a cancer that is found early over ninety percent of cases can be treated and cured. We look forward to the day when colorectal cancer is no longer a life-threatening disease because individuals are taking steps toward prevention.
There is a pre-screening cleansing procedure to follow, but the actual screening procedure takes only about 15-30 minutes. With minor sedation, the procedure is actually painless.
Let’s work together to win the fight against colorectal cancer. Schedule your screening colonoscopy today.
