Screening colonoscopy
Screening colonoscopy is performed on an asymptomatic person on the purpose of testing for the purpose of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps.
What is a colon cancer screening?
In order to determine the program that is best for you, we review your medical history to determine if you have any risk factors for CRC, such as a family member who got CRC, or a disease such as chronic ulcerative colitis, that increases your risk for CRC.
Several tests screen for CRC. The best is colonoscopy, which directly visualizes the lining of the colon and permits your doctor to remove most polyps. Polyps are fleshy growths that develop in the colon and that can lead to cancer in some cases.
Because colonoscopy requires anaesthesia, it may be risky in individuals who have advanced heart or lung diseases. In this setting, a non-invasive stool-based screening test or a CT scan of the colon may be desirable. Likewise, a non-invasive test may be preferable in the elderly – or you may not need screening at all.
We will also discuss with you factors that influence the best timing of colon cancer screening. This is often a nuanced clinical decision, part of the “art of medicine.”
We will discuss the options with you, providing you the information that you need to make the right choice.
Are all colon polyps cancerous?
Many people develop polyps in their colon, and very few are cancerous. However, because polyps don’t cause symptoms unless they grow large, it’s important to have a colonoscopy to detect them when they’re small and more easily treated.
Am I At a Risk for Colon Cancer?
It is important to understand your individual risk for developing colon cancer. Risk factors include:
.Family history of colon cancer
.Being over the age of 50 years
.Being overweight
.Smoking
.Excessive alcohol consumption
.Extended periods of inactivity
Important Reminder:
The information provided above is meant to be used as an informative guide for patients. For precise and individualized recommendations, please consult with one of our board certified gastroenterologists to discuss your symptoms.
For additional information or to book an appointment at the Aayushman clinic Gastroenterology Center, please feel free to reach out to our dedicated team by calling us at 8860291508. You can also schedule online or reach out to us via the Contact Us form.