As we head into the last few months of 2022, now is the ideal reminder to consider the situation of your overall health and your wellness goals for the coming year. One option to help you stay on top of these goals might be to book your routine colorectal screening with an experienced GI doctor. Even though other colon cancer screening testing methods are available, colonoscopy is perhaps the most reliable and efficient of all screenings in the field. The doctors at Austin Gastroenterology ... [Read More]
colonoscopy screenings
Colorectal Cancer Screening Age Drops from 50 to 45
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Recent studies show a rise in colorectal cancer rates among individuals younger than 50 years of age, prompting ACS and USPSTF (U.S. Preventative Services Task Force) to lower the recommended screening age to 45 for those at average risk of developing colorectal cancer. Getting screened even younger and more often may be recommended for those at higher ... [Read More]
June is Men’s Health Month: Get the Facts About Men and Colon Cancer
You've likely noticed day-to-day fluctuations in bowel habits depending upon the types of foods you consume and the daily medications you take. Yet, persistent changes in bowel habits can signal a more concerning condition. Colon and rectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer among the U.S. population, as indicated by the American Cancer Society. It's also important to note that the lifelong risk of having colon cancer among men is about 1 in 23. June is Men's Health month. At ... [Read More]
How Frequently Should a Colonoscopy be Performed?
A colonoscopy is a gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. The procedure entails doing a “prep,” which helps empty the bowels completely for accurate viewing. During a colonoscopy, the doctor uses a lighted, flexible instrument to view the rectum and colon, and check for abnormalities that may point to cancer. Precancerous polyps can also be removed during a colonoscopy. One of the most frequently asked questions about a colonoscopy is how often it should be performed, and the answer ... [Read More]
What Kind of Doctor Is Best for a Colonoscopy?
The colon, which is the large intestine, is a key part of the digestive system. Its function is to remove water, salt, and nutrients from partially digested food, and to prepare waste for elimination. Your risk of developing colon issues increases with age, and it is now recommended that you have your first colonoscopy at age 45. If you have colon cancer or rectal cancer in your family (grandparent, parent, sibling, or child), then your doctor may recommend that you have your first ... [Read More]
