The Importance of Colon Cancer Screenings

You can't live without your colon. That's why it's essential to ensure it functions well enough to help you digest food and process nutrients. The colon is a vital organ that is susceptible to cancer. Luckily, this type of cancer is highly treatable when caught early, which timely screenings can do. The medical team at Waco Gastroenterology Associates wants to ensure you know about colon cancer and its risks. That is why you should schedule your colon cancer screening in Waco, TX.

Why Early Detection Matters to You

You should never underestimate how important it is to get timely screenings based on your history of cancer. Detecting colon cancer at an early stage is when it is the most treatable. However, by the time it reaches stage three or four, the chances of mortality increase. Early detection also decreases the likelihood of cancer before it even develops. When your doctor conducts a screening, they look for polyps inside your colon walls. Those polyps can eventually turn cancerous if they're not removed. Luckily, doctors remove them during the screening and decrease your chances of developing colon cancer. If no abnormalities are detected, you often don't have to worry about coming back for another screening for as long as a decade.

Who Needs A Colon Cancer Screening in Waco, TX?

Every adult who has reached the age of 45 should get regular screenings for this disease. If you have a family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or other genetic syndromes, you may need to begin your screenings at an earlier age, such as 40. You may also need to get them more frequently than the general population. When you receive the screening, you are often sedated, so you won't be awake when the doctor is looking inside your colon. However, when you wake up, your doctor will discuss the findings from the exam.

Getting a colon cancer screening in Waco, TX, can save your life and give you peace of mind. Whether you have a family history of the disease or have shown signs that it may be developing, a professional screening can provide the insight you and your doctor need. The earlier you get the screenings, the earlier your doctor can detect and treat problems. When you visit the medical team at Waco Gastroenterology Associates, you will be under the care of compassionate and trustworthy professionals. Call us at (254) 537-0911 for a consultation today.