Colon Cancer Screening Specialist
Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC
Gastroenterologist & Endoscopy located in the Upper West Side of New York City, NY
A colon cancer screening is one of the most recommended cancer prevention screenings for adults. The screening test provides a unique opportunity to prevent colon cancer rather than finding it and treating it. At his private practice on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, board-certified gastroenterologist Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC, offers pain- and stress-free colon cancer screening options. Call the New York City office or book online today.
Colon Cancer Screening Q & A
What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, is a type of gastrointestinal cancer that affects the large intestine or rectum. It’s the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
Researchers are still investigating what causes colon cancer, but there are factors that may increase your risk, including:
- Age (more common in people age 50 and older)
- Family history of colon cancer
- Personal history of colon polyps
- Eating a low-fiber, high-fat diet
- Not getting enough physical activity
You may also be at a greater risk of developing colon cancer if you have a personal history of an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
The best way to protect yourself from this deadly form of cancer is to schedule a colon cancer screening with Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC.
When should I have a colon cancer screening?
Dr. Seecoomar recommends you start colon cancer screenings at age 45 and then continue regular screenings thereafter.
You may benefit from starting your colon cancer screening at an earlier age if you have risk factors for colon cancer, such as:
- Family history
- An inherited syndrome that increases the risk of colon cancer
- African-American race
- Discovery of colon polyps
You may also benefit from a colon cancer screening if you’re experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, gas, and bloating.
What happens during a colon cancer screening?
There are many colon cancer screening tests, so the specifics of your screening depends on the type of test being conducted. Types of colon cancer screening tests include:
- Stool test
- Sigmoidoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- CT colonoscopy (virtual colonoscopy)
Dr. Seecoomar reviews the types of colon cancer screening best suited for you.
However, Dr. Seecoomar recommends the colonoscopy over most other tests because it not only provides the most thorough evaluation of your large intestines but may also prevent colon cancer by finding and removing benign colon polyps.
Colon polyps are small benign growths that may be present in the lining of the large intestine. When left untreated, your benign colon polyps may turn cancerous. Finding and removing the polyps reduces your risk of developing colon cancer.
Plus, if you have a colonoscopy for your colon cancer screening, and your screening results are negative, you can wait 10 years until your next screening. The other colon cancer screening tests need to be repeated more frequently, even if your results are normal.
With his empathetic and compassionate approach, you can expect a stress- and pain-free colon cancer screening with Leslie F. Seecoomar, MD, PC. Call the office or book your screening online today.