What is the difference between a colorectal surgeon and a gastroenterologist? This is a very common question that we receive and often patients are unsure of which field is appropriate for their needs.
Colon Cancer is the Second Leading Cause of Cancer Death
However, the good news is that regular screening colonoscopies can prevent colon cancer from starting. Screening detects growths in your colon (called “polyps”) so they can be painlessly removed before they turn into cancer. Colon cancer can occur at any age, but your risk significantly increases at Age 50.
9 out of 10 People Diagnosed with Colon Cancer are Over the Age of 50
Other Risk Factors
Simply being over 50 increases your risk, but there other factors that also increase your risk. Be sure to talk to Dr. Perryman about them:
Check with Dr. Perryman about when you should begin your preventative screenings, and how frequently to repeat them if you have any of these risk factors.
Early colon cancer usually has no symptoms
Signs and symptoms of colon cancer often do not present until the cancer is more advanced.
Contact Dr. Perryman immediately if you begin experiencing:
“Treatments and outcomes continue to improve. There are more options available today than ever before. They vary and may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination depending on the stage and location of the cancer. Surgery can be performed laparoscopically. A permanent colostomy is rarely needed. But you must seek medical attention early to improve your odds of beating this deadly disease.” Lisa A. Perryman, MD, FACS, FASCRS
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