The best way to avoid colon cancer is by visiting your New York City area, gastroenterologist, Dr. UAzeem Khan, for a colonoscopy starting at the age of 50.
More About Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is when your doctor examines the lining of your intestines. They check for abnormalities, like polyps, using a thin flexible tube that's inserted into the anus. The instrument allows your doctor to see on a monitor what's in the lining.
A routine visit to your doctor for a colonoscopy is how most people detect cancer during its earliest stages. Board-certified physicians want their patients to schedule an appointment for a colonoscopy, or a flexible sigmoidoscopy, as soon as possible.
Adults aged 50 to 75 are recommended to visit their gastroenterologist on a regular basis, according to the CDC. Colorectal cancer usually begins as a small polyp in the colon.
At first, the polyps aren't cancerous but they may develop cancer over time. If you take the proper precautions of screening and keeping an eye out for symptoms, however, cancer can be treated or prevented.
Colon Cancer
Colon cancer affects thousands of Americans. According to the American Cancer Society's statistics, more than 95,000 people were diagnosed with colon cancer in 2016 alone.
Symptoms aren't always obvious, so keep an eye out for the following:
- Changes in Bowel Habits: If you are suffering from constipation or diarrhea for more than four weeks, that may be a sign of cancer.
- Bloody Stool: Hemorrhoids are usually accompanied by blood in stool, but the blood may also be a sign of a more serious condition like cancer.
Need a consultation? Give our New York City Area Office a Call Today!
If you would like more information on colonoscopies and screening procedures, you can contact the doctors at Forest Hills Gastroenterology. If you are in Forest Hills, NY, call your gastroenterologist, Dr. Azeem Khan, to schedule an appointment today! We are proud to serve residents of the New York City area.