Colonoscopy screening helps save lives by aiding in the early detection of colon cancer. It also helps in diagnosing various gastrointestinal conditions, such as ulcerative colitis. All adults should undergo colonoscopy screening around 50 years of age or sooner if there is an increased risk for colorectal or colon cancer. Dr. Anees, the board-certified gastroenterologist at Southwest Gastroenterology Clinic and Surgery Center in Burleson, TX, performs colonoscopy screening.
The Colonoscopy Procedure
A colonoscopy is a simple procedure that makes it possible to examine the lining of the colon without surgery. Polyps, growths, and other abnormalities can be readily detected during colonoscopy screening. Detection of these things is important because they can be a sign of colon cancer or a gastrointestinal disorder, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Colonoscopy screening is performed with a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope that is gently inserted into the colon through the anus. A tiny video camera is attached to the end of the colonoscope, which allows live video to be captured in real time and transmitted to a screen during the procedure. If polyps or other growths are observed, they can be immediately removed using the colonoscope. A biopsy can then be performed to determine if cancer cells are present.
When Colonoscopy Screening is Needed
All healthy adults with a mild to moderate risk for developing colon cancer should undergo their first colonoscopy screening at age 50 and every ten years after that. It is recommended that men and women with certain risk factors, such as colon polyps or a family history of colorectal cancer have a colonoscopy at an earlier age, as well as more frequently. The experienced gastroenterologist at our clinic in Burleson, TX, performs colonoscopy screening and can determine how soon you need one.
Colonoscopy screening might also be needed when certain symptoms are present that are an indication of a possible gastrointestinal disorder or inflammatory bowel disease. Talk to a doctor about colonoscopy screening if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Abdominal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Chronic diarrhea
- Chronic constipation
- Unexpected weight loss
- Persistent intestinal problems
The guidelines on colonoscopy screening recommend getting your first one at 50 years of age or sooner if you have an increased risk for colorectal cancer. For colonoscopy screening in Burleson, TX, schedule a consultation with Dr. Anees by calling Southwest Gastroenterology Clinic and Surgery Center at (817) 293-9292.