Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (EGD) and Colonoscopy Colon Cancer Screening
Dr. Connor performs all endoscopic procedures at Carnegie Hill Endoscopy, an ambulatory endoscopy center located in the Carnegie Hill section of Manhattan. He has been performing endoscopic procedures for over 30 years and has extensive experience along with
a personal approach to make the endoscopic experience as convenient, thorough,
and painless as possible.
Endoscopic Procedures and Colon Cancer Screening Q&A:
When should I ask about colon cancer screening?
Current recommendations state that colonoscopy is recommended for all adults age 50 and above or anyone with a family history of colon cancer or symptoms related to a
change in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss or abdominal pain. Specific symptoms to be aware of to prompt screening include in addition to unexplained abdominal pain are: narrower than normal stool, blood in the stool, unusual change in bowel habits or unexplained anemia. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please seek the advice of Dr. Connor as soon as possible. Colorectal cancer is one of the most curable cancers when caught early, and colonoscopy is the most effective diagnostic evaluation for colon cancer prevention. Colonoscopy is recommended for surveillance because most of the time because colon cancer is silent and the finding of polyps of the colon often predates the onset of cancer and allows the doctor to remove the polyps which may, if left in place, turn cancerous.
Why should I care about cancer screening if I have no symptoms?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in three adults in America between the ages of 50 and 75 years are not receiving proper
screenings which are recommended. Daily exercise and a healthy diet which encourages the consumption of fruits, vegetables and other plant-based foods can decrease the risk of colon cancer but screening will be a crucial part of cancer prevention. More and more cancers can be treated and cured when they are caught early.
Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in America for men–just behind lung and prostate cancer, and for women–just behind lung and breast cancer. Fortunately, most colorectal cancers are preventable with proper cancer screening by colonoscopy. Screening ensures that early detection allows for the removal of precancerous polyps.
