A Routine For Cancer Prevention

Why Should I Get a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopies are about prevention. They are the most accurate way to detect — and remove — polyps in your intestine, thus reducing your chances of developing colon cancer. They are also the most accurate way to detect colon cancer early so it can be treated.

Colon cancer — also called colorectal cancer — almost always develops from a precancerous polyp in your rectum or colon.

The five-year survival rate for individuals with colon cancer is 90% if it is diagnosed and treated in the early stage of its advancement.

A Minimally Invasive Procedure

A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure where your physician takes a small scope that has a tiny camera and light attached to the end of it and inserts it into your rectum, following up into your intestines. Your doctor is looking for inflamed tissue and abnormalities (or polyps) which can be removed during the procedure.

Preparation is minimal, and you can resume normal activities after your procedure is complete. Prep involves moving to a clear, liquid diet the day before, as well as taking some medications to clear out your colon. During the colonoscopy itself, you will be under sedation.

Regular Screening

Regular screening for colon cancer involves having a colonoscopy every ten years, beginning at age 45 if not at high risk. Those at a higher risk of colon cancer may need to begin regular screenings earlier, which you and your doctor can determine. Typically, screenings are not done past age 76.

Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common cancer diagnosed in the United States, with the American Cancer Society estimating that there will be 153,020 new cases and 52,550 deaths in 2023. In South Carolina, those expected numbers are estimated to be 2,550 new cases and 910 deaths this year.

Get Expert Care

With regular screenings in close consultation with your doctor, we can find and prevent colon cancers. Our team cannot emphasize the importance of preventative healthcare enough.

If it’s time for you to be screened, give our office a call at 864-232-7338, and we will help you get set up and answer any questions you might have. Or, you can visit us online to request an appointment. We have a convenient program that allows you to schedule your screening colonoscopy without needing a clinic visit!