Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in America and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among American men and women. While anyone can get colorectal cancer, it is most common among people over the age of 50. Fortunately, colorectal cancer is preventable, and curable, if detected early. Unfortunately, most colorectal cancers are “silent” tumors. They grow slowly and often do not produce symptoms until they reach a large size. For this reason, it is very important to be screened early and regularly by a doctor for colorectal cancer, even if you have no symptoms.
There are a number of tests to diagnose colorectal cancer and we perform them all in the comfort and convenience of our offices. These tests include:
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy examines the entire colon and rectum. During this procedure, a biopsy may be taken or polyp removed.
- Sigmoidoscopy: is a procedure used to examine the very last part of the colon (sigmoid colon and rectum). This test can detect polyps, tumors and other changes in the sigmoid colon and rectum. During this exam, a biopsy (tissue sample) can also be taken for testing.