Colonoscopy
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is the most common and effective screening method for colorectal cancer. It allows a physician to look inside your entire large intestine, from the lowest part, the rectum, all the way up through the colon to the lower end of the small intestine. A colonoscopy can both identify any polyps present and remove them if necessary to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
About Colorectal Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women in the United States. Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells form tumors in normal tissues of the intestines and digestive system. Many cases of colorectal cancer have no symptoms or warning signs until the cancer has advanced, which is why it is so important to be screened. Some of the symptoms that may indicate colon cancer are:
- Abdominal pain
- Blood in stool
- Changes in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight loss
- Unexplained anemia
- Vomiting
These symptoms should never be ignored and should be discussed with your health care provider ASAP.
Schedule Your Screening Today
Colon cancer screening saves lives. If everyone who is 45 years of age and up were screened regularly, as many as 60% of deaths from this cancer could be avoided. To schedule a screening at Crestwood Medical Center, North Alabama’s only ASGE certified Endoscopy Center, call (256) 429-4986.