Get Your Colonoscopy!

Colon and rectal cancers are the third most common cancers in both men and women.  A colonoscopy not only detects polyps and cancers of the colon and rectum, but also prevents the occurrence of cancer by detecting and removing polyps in their pre-cancerous stages.

“We know that all cancers of the colon and rectum start out as small, non-cancerous polyps that almost always can be removed during colonoscopy,” says Dwight Fitzgerald, MD, of Catawba Surgical Associates.  “Over a period of years, some polyps will turn into cancers. Put another way, all colon and rectal cancers start as small non-cancerous polyps. They never start as cancerous polyps. The great benefit of colonoscopy is its ability to detect and remove polyps, which prevents the development of colon and rectal cancers.

“The majority of early colon and rectal cancers do not cause any symptoms,” Dr. Fitzgerald continues.  “The cancers that cause symptoms are usually at an advanced stage and are less likely to be cured with treatment. That is why everyone should undergo colonoscopy. The current recommendation is a routine screening colonoscopy at age fifty.  However, some people should undergo colonoscopy at an earlier age if they have a family history of colon or rectal polyps or cancers in their family, or if they have blood in their stool. 

“For those patients who may be anxious about undergoing a colonoscopy exam, keep in mind that the exam is done under anesthesia, which makes it painless.  It is covered by all insurers, including Medicare and Medicaid.  It is usually completed in about fifteen minutes, and the patient can return to normal activities within a few hours afterwards.

“Most importantly, remember that colonoscopy actually prevents the occurrence of colon and rectal cancers and the need for surgery and possible colostomy. It can truly save your life and happiness.”

For more information about colonoscopy, please call Catawba Surgical Associates at 828/322-8485.