Unfortunately, colon cancer is a growing problem in the United States due in part to the American diet. That is why timely screenings are essential to preventing this disease. Luckily, early intervention can often provide a positive prognosis. That is why you should consult with Alaska Digestive and Liver Disease doctors when you reach the suggested age for getting colonoscopies in Anchorage, Wasilla, Palmer & Mat-Su Valley, AK.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
When you get a colonoscopy, you are getting a screening for colon cancer or pre-cancerous polyps. During your procedure, your doctor will sedate you and insert a tube with a camera attached at the end through your anus. This tube can see inside your colon, so your doctor can check for anything suspicious, such as swollen tissues or visible polyps. In most cases, your doctor can remove polyps during the colonoscopy screening. If they are too large to remove, your doctor can mark those areas with a blue dye and later use open surgery to remove them.
What Age Do You Need to Start These Screenings?
You should start your colonoscopies in Anchorage, Wasilla, Palmer & Mat-Su Valley, AK, by age 45. However, if you have a history of digestive diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome or a family history of colon cancer, you may need to start your screenings earlier. Regardless of age, you should also get a screening if you have noticeable changes in digestive or bowel habits, particularly bleeding, pain, or unintentional weight loss. Once you start your screenings, you normally won't need another one for 10 years if no suspicious tissues or polyps are found. However, if you’re in a high-risk group, your doctor may want you to return sooner, such as in five years. People should go for regular screenings until they reach age 75.
The Alaska Digestive and Liver Disease team is here for you when you're experiencing digestive or bowel problems that need proper diagnosis and treatment. With rising colon cancer diagnoses, it is essential to start having regular colonoscopies in Anchorage, Wasilla, Palmer, and Mat-Su Valley, AK, when recommended. Call for more information today at (907) 569-1333 for the Eagle River and Anchorage offices and (907) 631-3578 for the Wasilla office.