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Colon Cancer: Have You Been Screened?

March 1, 2021

Few people really look forward to a colonoscopy. But when you consider that it could save your life, it's a simple step worth taking. A colonoscopy is the best way to detect and prevent colorectal cancer, the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women in the United States.

Many experts recommend most people have a colonoscopy starting at age 50. People with a higher risk, such as having a family history of colon cancer, should be tested sooner. The American Cancer Society now even suggests that most patients should have a colonoscopy at age 45, due to the rise in colon cancer found in those between 45 and 49 years of age.

During a colonoscopy exam, a flexible tube is inserted into the rectum and moved through the large intestine. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to examine the lining and see any polyps that may be present. If colon polyps are found, they can be removed at the same time. You're under sedation, so you won’t feel a thing.

Before your exam, you will need to fast from solid foods and drink liquids to empty your colon. That's essential to getting a clear picture of the lining of your intestine. But today, there are options to make the prep easier than ever.

Mercy specialists will guide you through every step of your colonoscopy. They bring experience and expertise to this very effective form of cancer detection and treatment, and they'll work hard to keep you informed and at ease through the entire process.

Colorectal cancer can be hereditary. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or have been diagnosed yourself, your doctor may recommend genetic counseling and possible testing. This testing is a safe, simple way to discover if you or your family is at risk for certain cancers.

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What to Expect During a Colonoscopy

Few people really look forward to a colonoscopy. But when you consider that it could save your life, it's a simple step worth taking. A colonoscopy is the best way to detect and prevent colon cancer, the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., and the easiest cancer to prevent. Experts recommend most people have a colonoscopy starting at age 50. People with a higher risk, such as having a family history of colon cancer, should be tested sooner. The American Cancer Society now even suggests that most patients should have a colonoscopy at age 45, due to the rise in colon cancer found in those between 45 and 49 years of age.

Don't Wait! Just ask Mark Lough

Mark Lough encouraged as many as he can to get their preventative colonoscopy screenings. Something, at first, he brushed off, until it was too late.

"Not a Big Deal" Says Madelynn Innes

As Madelynn Innes approached 50 years old, she was avoiding getting colonoscopy. She says she was "silly to be dreading it so much," and it "really wasn't a big deal."

Colon Cancer Survivor Urges Screenings for "Silent Killer"

Mario Guerreiro showed no signs or symptoms, nor had a family history of the disease, but was able to catch it early.

Family History & Risks

My mother has had polyps removed from her colon. Does this put me at a higher risk for colon cancer? Dr. Chad Wigington has the answer.

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