Colon Cancer Screening Specialist

7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC Our Services Colon Cancer Screening

7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC

Gastroenterology located in Ocala, FL

More than 140,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer each year, and it’s the second most common cause of cancer death in men and women in the United States. Colon cancer screening can save your life. Dedicated to breaking the painful silence associated with colorectal health, the experienced board-certified gastroenterologist, Vishnu Reddy, MD, at 7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC, offers colon cancer screenings to the people living in and around Ocala, Florida. To schedule your screening, call the office, or request an appointment online today.

Colon Cancer Screening Q & A

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer, like other types of cancer, develops due to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells. With colon cancer, also referred to as colorectal cancer, cells in your colon or rectum become abnormal and divide out of control, forming masses called tumors. These masses may be benign (noncancerous), but frequently these growths can result in life-threatening cancers.

Does colon cancer cause symptoms?

You may not have any symptoms during the early stages of colon cancer. However, as the tumor grows, you may begin to experience:

  • Change in bowel habits
  • Bloody stools
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Feeling as though you can’t fully empty your bowel. 

You should schedule a consultation at 7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC, anytime you’re experiencing changes in bowel habits for an evaluation. 

When should I schedule a colon cancer screening?

Though you can develop colon cancer at any age, the general recommendation is that you should begin colon cancer screening at age 50, and then continue regular screenings after that. This is because most cases of colon cancer are diagnosed in those ages 50 and older. 

However, you may benefit from earlier screening if you have a family history of colon cancer, you’re genetically predisposed to developing polyps, or you have Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. 

Your lifestyle may also place you at risk for colon cancer and warrant earlier colon cancer screenings. Eating too many processed foods, not getting enough exercise, smoking, and stress that increases your use of antacids and/or laxatives may all increase your risk of colon cancer. 

What types of colon cancer screening tests are performed?

7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC, offers many colon cancer screening tests. You may benefit from one or more of these tests based on your medical history and risk. The colon cancer test options include:

  • Polyp and non-polypoid lesion test
  • Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
  • Sigmoidoscopy
  • Colonoscopy
  • Virtual colonoscopy
  • Double-contrast barium enema (DCBE)

Each colon cancer screening has advantages and disadvantages, and the specialists at 7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC, can discuss the tests with you and help you decide the best screening tool for you.

To schedule your colon cancer screening, call 7 Hill Gastroenterology, LLC, or request an appointment online. 

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