Colon Cancer Detection and Treatment

Nearly 1 in every 20 adult Americans will develop colon cancer in their lifetime. That's a startling statistic. But research has confirmed that the single best prevention for colon cancer is the early detection and removal of all colon polyps. At Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates, our physicians are experts in the detection and treatment of this disease. To find out if you're at risk for colon cancer, view our Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer Screening.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Chart

Patient Description	Evaluation Indicated
	Digital Rectal Exam	Stool Hemoccult	Colonoscopy	Sigmoidoscopy
AGE 50+ No symptoms negative family history	every year	every year	Now, then every 5-10 years if negative	If Colonoscopy not available, Sigmoidoscopy plus air contrast Barium Enema would be second choice
ANY AGE ADULT With personal history of colon polyps or cancer first degree relative with colon cancer or colon polyps	every year	every year	Colonoscopy now, then every 3-5 years if negative
Blood in stool or iron deficiency or anemia	every year	N/A	Colonoscopy now	N/A
Ulcerative Colitis	every year	N/A	Yearly, after 7 years of disease	N/A
Individualized Approach
Other GI symptoms, abdominal pain, narrow stools, constipation or diarrhea, "gas" or distention, family history of GYN, breast or other GI cancer.

If you've already scheduled an appointment for a colonoscopy, read more about the screening process. (Colonoscopy FAQs)

If you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact any of our offices. Since many health insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician, we recommend that all patients check with their individual carriers before calling for a consultation.