The Importance of Colon Cancer Screening: A Guide to Colonoscopies

Colon cancer is a common yet preventable illness that affects many people. As a matter of fact, according to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women.

Fortunately, colon cancer screening can detect cancer early on and prevent it from developing.

In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of colon cancer screening and provide a guide to colonoscopies. This information is intended for patients of Wooster Community Hospital and anyone else looking to learn more about colon cancer prevention.

Risk Factors for Colon Cancer

The first step in colon cancer prevention is to understand your personal risk factors. People who are over the age of 50, have a family history of colon cancer, or have certain medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease are at an increased risk for colon cancer. It is important to discuss your personal risk factors with your healthcare provider and determine when to begin screening. For most people, screening should begin at age 50.

Colon Cancer Screening

Colonoscopy is considered to be the gold standard for colon cancer screening. During a colonoscopy, a gastroenterologist examines the inside of the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps, which can develop into cancer. The procedure is performed while the patient is under sedation and usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour to complete. Most people experience minimal to no discomfort during the procedure, and any discomfort or bloating should dissipate quickly afterward.

One of the benefits of colonoscopies is that they allow for the removal of polyps during the procedure. This can prevent the development of colon cancer altogether. In fact, the removal of polyps during a colonoscopy has been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 90 percent! It is important to note that not all polyps will turn into cancer, and the majority of polyps are benign. However, removing them is still beneficial for cancer prevention.

Preparing for a colonoscopy can seem daunting, but it is a necessary step in colon cancer prevention. Your doctor will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, which will include dietary restrictions and a bowel prep to cleanse the colon. Following these instructions carefully is crucial to ensuring the effectiveness of the procedure. Your doctor will also provide you with information on when to stop certain medications and supplements before the procedure.

Colonoscopy Near Me in Wooster, Ohio

Colon cancer is a serious illness, but it is preventable with regular screening. Colonoscopies are a safe and effective way to detect and prevent colon cancer, and the removal of polyps during the procedure can reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 90 percent!

If you are over the age of 50 or have a family history of colon cancer, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about when to begin colon cancer screening. By understanding your personal risk factors, preparing for the procedure, and following your doctor’s instructions, you can take control of your health and prevent colon cancer.

At Wooster Community Hospital, we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment services. Our board-certified physicians offer tailored treatments to address specific patient needs, ensuring high-quality care for residents of Wayne County and the surrounding areas in Ohio.

Specialized gastrointestinal exams and colonoscopies are offered as both screening and diagnostic procedures at Wooster Community Hospital, aiming to detect and remove precancerous growths in the lower gastrointestinal tract.

Additionally, the hospital provides emergency endoscopy services 24/7, ensuring immediate care when needed. The facility also offers inpatient and outpatient surgery services with an emphasis on patient-specific treatment options and advanced surgical techniques led by orthopedic surgeons.

Moreover, the hospital’s diagnostic imaging services are available for around-the-clock emergency care, delivering comprehensive care for patients’ imaging needs. Furthermore, Wooster Community Hospital emphasizes comprehensive cancer treatment care, providing a supportive and effective approach to cancer treatment for our patients.

For those seeking specialized gastroenterology services, Wooster Community Hospital offers a team of experts who provide tailored gastrointestinal exams and treatments to meet individual needs, ensuring trusted care for the community.

Wooster Community Hospital is committed to providing quality colon cancer screening and prevention services to our patients. Talk to your doctor today to learn more about colonoscopies and colon cancer screening options.

For more information about our gastroenterology services or to schedule a colonoscopy, contact Wooster Community Hospital at (330) 263-8660 Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5:30 pm, and we will be happy to assist you.