Colon Cancer Screening

Colon cancer is the fourth most common form of cancer among men and women in the United States. At Mirage Health in Chandler and Mesa, Arizona, board-certified gastroenterologist Rajiv Sharma, MD, and the team offer innovative colon cancer screening that can detect this form of cancer early when it’s easiest to treat. Schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment by calling the office or booking online today. 

What is colon cancer screening?

Colon cancer screening at Mirage Health includes various methods to screen for colorectal cancer, a type of cancer that forms in the colon and/or rectum. It begins as polyps in the lining of the colon or rectum in your large intestine. Polyps may become cancerous when not removed, and colorectal cancer can spread to other areas of your body.

Colon cancer screening can detect polyps before they turn into cancer. Early detection is critical to avoid serious complications.

Which symptoms can colon cancer cause?

The following are symptoms of colon cancer:

• Abdominal bloating
• Belly pain
• Blood in the stool
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

You might feel like your bowel is not completely empty, even after going to the bathroom.

Colon cancer often develops slowly. In fact, it can take about 10 years for a precancerous polyp to develop into cancer that causes symptoms. 

What are the different types of colon cancer screening?

Here are examples of colon cancer screening tests available at Mirage Health:

Stool tests

Stool tests help detect blood or altered DNA in your stool. You’ll need to leave a sample to complete this screening, and a lab will evaluate the stool for signs of cancer.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy

During a flexible sigmoidoscopy, your provider inserts a thin, flexible, lighted tube into your rectum to look for polyps and cancer in your rectum and the lower third of your colon.

Colonoscopy

A traditional colonoscopy is like a flexible sigmoidoscopy. The Mirage Health team uses a longer lighted tube to screen for polyps and cancer in your rectum and the entire length of your colon. Sedation helps keep you relaxed during this procedure. 

Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography)

A virtual colonoscopy uses computed tomography (CT scanning) to create images of your colon, allowing your provider to detect potential concerns without the need for sedation.

Capsule endoscopy

During a capsule endoscopy, you swallow a tiny capsule containing a camera that takes pictures as it passes through your stomach, intestine, colon, and rectum to screen for signs of cancer. 

When should I undergo colon cancer screening?

Many people should begin colon cancer screening at age 45, but some need earlier testing if they have certain risk factors. Examples include a family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or unusual GI symptoms. 

Talk with the Mirage Health team to learn which type of test is right for you. They also let you know how often to schedule repeat colon cancer screenings.

Book your next colon cancer screening at Mirage Health by calling the office or booking an appointment online today. Telehealth is also available.