Colon Cancer Screening in Mesa, Chandler, & Gilbert, AZ

Name: Colon Cancer Screening
Brand: AZ Gastro Care
Rating: 4.4 (1473 reviews)

Colon cancer is one of the most common and preventable cancers affecting both men and women. Routine screenings can detect and remove polyps before they develop into cancer, significantly reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. At AZ Gastro Care, we provide comprehensive colon cancer screening services to help patients stay proactive about their health. Our team offers advanced diagnostic procedures, including colonoscopy and stool-based tests, to ensure early detection and timely intervention.

What Is Colon Cancer Screening?

Colon cancer screenings in Chandler & Mesa at AZ Gastro Care involve specialized tests designed to detect cancerous or precancerous changes in the colon and rectum before symptoms appear. There are two primary types of screening tests:

Stool-Based Tests – These tests check for hidden blood or abnormal DNA in stool samples, which can indicate the presence of colon cancer or other gastrointestinal conditions.
Colonoscopy – This procedure allows for a detailed examination of the colon, enabling the detection and removal of precancerous polyps.

If a stool test returns positive for blood or abnormal cells, a colonoscopy is required for further evaluation and confirmation.

When Should You Get a Colon Cancer Screening?

Routine screening is recommended starting at age 45 for individuals at average risk. However, earlier screening may be necessary for those with:

A family history of colon cancer or polyps
A history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
Genetic conditions associated with inherited colorectal cancer syndromes
A personal history of colon polyps or gastrointestinal disorders

If you are unsure about when to begin screening, our team at AZ Gastro Care can provide personalized recommendations based on your risk factors.

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How Does a Colonoscopy Help Prevent Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer typically begins as polyps—small, abnormal growths in the colon lining. Over time, some polyps may develop genetic mutations, leading to cancer.
A colonoscopy is the most effective method for colon cancer prevention because:

It allows for direct visualization of the colon, identifying abnormalities early.
Any detected polyps can be removed immediately, preventing them from becoming cancerous.
The procedure is minimally invasive and can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing colon cancer.

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What Are the Risk Factors for Colon Cancer?

While the exact cause of colon cancer remains unknown, research suggests that genetic mutations influenced by lifestyle and health factors contribute to its development.

Common risk factors include:

Obesity or being overweight
Sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity
Diets high in processed and red meats
Excessive alcohol consumption
Smoking or long-term tobacco use
Age (risk increases after 50, but screening is now recommended at 45)
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
Family history of colon cancer or polyps
Genetic predisposition (certain inherited mutations increase the risk)

Understanding these risk factors allows for preventative strategies, including lifestyle modifications and routine screenings.

What Are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

In its early stages, colon cancer often does not cause symptoms. By the time symptoms appear, the disease may already be advanced. Common symptoms include:

Blood in stools or rectal bleeding
Dark, tarry stools
Unexplained changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools)
Persistent abdominal discomfort (cramping, bloating, or pain)
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue and anemia due to chronic blood loss

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical evaluation promptly.

What to Expect During a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that allows for a thorough examination of the colon and rectum. During the procedure:

A thin, flexible tube (colonoscope) equipped with a camera is inserted into the colon.
The colon lining is examined for polyps, inflammation, or other abnormalities.
If polyps are found, they are removed immediately and sent to a lab for further testing.
The procedure typically lasts 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of polyps removed.
Patients are given light sedation to ensure comfort, and recovery is usually quick, with minimal downtime.

Schedule Your Colon Cancer Screening Today

Regular screening is the most effective way to prevent colon cancer. At AZ Gastro Care, we are committed to providing exceptional screening and diagnostic services to support your long-term health.

Take control of your health today—schedule a colon cancer screening at our Mesa, Chandler, or Gilbert locations.