Types of Colon Cancer Screening Tests: A Comprehensive Overview

Colon cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. Early detection of colon cancer is critical to survival. Colon cancer screenings provide a reliable way to detect early signs of colon cancer. Dr. Vikram Jayanty and Dr. Julien Fahed in Houston, TX, offer a wide range of gastroenterology services, including colon cancer screenings.

What You Need To Know About Colon Cancer Screenings

You should have a colon cancer screening by the time you are 45 years old. You may need a colon cancer screening sooner if you have a family history of colon cancer or if you are experiencing:

• Chronic abdominal pain
• Frequent diarrhea or constipation
• Blood in your stool
• Rectal bleeding

There are several types of colon cancer screening, including:

A colonoscopy, during which a thin tube is inserted into the rectum and guided up through the entire colon. Polyps or tissue samples can be removed during the biopsy procedure. Colonoscopy is first and foremost a test to prevent and detect colon cancer.

Stool testing, in which a small sample of your stool is tested for blood and other abnormalities, A stool sample can either be taken at home and sent to a laboratory, or the sample can be taken in a laboratory.

Virtual colonoscopy uses a computer to put several images of different sections of your colon together to form a complete picture of your colon. Polyps and abnormal growths can be detected and removed.

The following colon cancer screening procedures are performed in an outpatient setting under sedation, so you must bring a driver with you to take you home after the test.

sigmoidoscopy, during which a thin tube is inserted into the rectum and guided up into the lower colon. Polyps or tissue samples can be removed during the biopsy procedure.

Want To Know More About colon cancer Screening?

To find out more about the importance of colon cancer screenings and which type of screening might be best for you, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Vikram Jayanty and Dr. Julien Fahed in Houston, TX. You can reach him in the office by calling (713) 932-9200, so call today.