If everybody who is 50 years old or older could be screened regularly, as many as 60% of deaths for this cancer could be avoided.  Signs to be aware of:  

• Bleeding from your rectum
• Dark stools or blood in your stool
• Constipation or diarrhea that lasts more than a few days
• Cramping in your lower stomach, or pain when you sit on the toilet
• Tiredness, fatigue, unintended weight loss

Studies indicate that colorectal cancer may be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight, eating fruits and vegetables daily, keeping physically active and limiting the use of alcoholic beverages.

We make it easy for our patients to get a colonoscopy. We handle the scheduling (weekdays and early mornings are preferred), help obtain insurance authorization; if you are a self pay we work with the gastroenterologist, anesthesiologist and outpatient surgical center for the BEST cash price. We recommend a hotel close to the surgical center (we have corporate discounts w many hotels) & your consult with the doctor is arranged soon after you arrive. The doctor gives you the liquid prep and instructions to take with you back to the hotel. On the day of your procedure, we arrange for our driver to pick you up, or if you prefer, a Patient Navigator goes with you & waits while you undergo the colonoscopy. Typically pre-op, procedure & recovery time lasts 2 hours or less. Afterwards, we take you back to your room. We are in constant contact with our patients to address any questions they may have about this process. Time and time again our patients tell us afterwards "that was easy". Don't let fear of the unknown prevent you from taking this valuable screening exam. It could save your life!

Colon cancer in the early stages has no symptoms. By the time symptoms appear tumors can be larger and more difficult to treat.