Colon Cancer Screening Q & A

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer is a condition where there is an abnormal growth of the cells in the lining of your colon, the last part of your digestive tract. Usually, colon cancer begins as a small clump of cells called a polyp. Most often, polyps do not cause any discomfort or overt symptoms.

It is this lack of symptoms in the early stages of colon cancer that requires regular screening. By catching and removing polyps early, colon cancer can be prevented and have little to no impact on your long-term health.

When should I get a colon cancer screening?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) suggests everyone ages 50-75 get regular colon cancer screenings. Some authorities are now recommending screenings at age 45. 

Your doctor may suggest you begin your screenings earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer, an inflammatory bowel disease (like Chron’s or ulcerative colitis) or you have a disorder that causes frequent colon polyps.

You may also need to get checked for colon cancer if you have any of these symptoms:

• A significant change in your bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation) that lasts more than 4 weeks
• Blood in your stool
• Persistent abdominal cramping, gas or pain
• Bowels do not empty completely
• Unexplained weight loss

What does colon cancer screening look like?

Dr. Rubin, who has 30 years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of colon disorders, offers expert screening for colon cancer. 

Most often, colon cancer screenings begin with a thorough physical exam and health history. In most circumstances, a Colonoscopy, a diagnostic tool for visualizing the inside of your colon, will be performed.

For your own thorough colon cancer screening, contact the office of Dr. Rubin by call or by booking an appointment online.