Screenings and Exams for Colorectal Cancer

When doctors diagnose colon cancer at an early stage, they can successfully treat up to 90 percent of patients.

This means that regular screening is crucial to finding and treating cancer early.

What Is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy detects polyps in the lining of the colon or rectum.

It's the only exam that can find and remove polyps before they become cancerous.

During a colonoscopy, you will receive sedation. Your doctor will insert a tube in your rectum and colon to look for polyps or cancer.

Is Colorectal Cancer Screening for Me?

You should have regular screenings if you:

• Are over the age of 50.
• Are African-American over age 45. Colorectal cancer tends to present at an early age, and more aggressive when diagnosed.
• Have a family history of colon cancer or polyps.
• Have any of these risk factors —
  • Heavy alcohol use.
  • Obesity.
  • Smoking.
  • Type II diabetes.

If you've received a colon cancer diagnosis or have concerns about a colonoscopy, our experts can help.

We'll make sure you have a correct accurate diagnosis. And, we can design a tailored treatment plan based on your disease profile.

Contact Us About Colon, Rectal, and Gastrointestinal Cancer 

To learn more about Colorectal and Gastrointestinal Cancers or to make an appointment, you can:

• Call 412-647-2811
• Contact a UPMC Hillman Cancer Center near you.