Gastroenterologist and internist Anthony Galan, MD, has heard all the excuses for not having a routine colonoscopy, from "I don't have the time," to "There's no history of colon cancer in my family." Usually he succeeds in convincing his patients to have the procedure, however. "They're often surprised by how easy it was," he says. "They're also relieved that they took this vital step to safeguard their health."

Short, Simple Exam
Colonoscopy, which is considered the "gold standard" for colon cancer screening, involves inserting a flexible scope through the rectum and examining the entire length of the colon for tumors or polyps (precancerous growths), which often can be removed immediately. The test usually takes no more than 30 minutes and it is performed while patients are sedated with a gentle anesthetic.

"Everyone should get a colonoscopy at age 50," Dr. Galan says. "After that, if no polyps are found, people at average risk need the test only once every 10 years." He adds that people with higher than average risk, such as those with a family history of colon cancer, may need to be screened earlier and more often.

Anthony Galan, MD, gastroenterologist

Early Detection is Key
Screening is especially important because the disease may not produce symptoms until it's difficult to treat. According to the American Cancer Society, these signs may include:

• Diarrhea, constipation or a narrowing of the stool
• A continuous feeling that you need to have a bowel movement
• Bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool
• Cramping, bloating or steady stomach pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Weakness or tiredness

Dr. Galan performs colonoscopies at the Providence Health Center, which has two endoscopy rooms and a friendly, dedicated staff committed to making sure the screening process is convenient and comfortable.

"Even if you are still somewhat intimidated by the idea of colonoscopy, it's so important to overcome your fear," Dr. Galan says. "Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in the U.S., but it's also very preventable and treatable if we catch it early."

Schedule Your Colonoscopy
For more information on colonoscopy at Doctors Hospital, please call 956-724-9219.

Join our Free Forum
March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month – learn more about this disease at a free forum.

When: Thursday, March 26, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Providence Health Center, 230 Calle del Norte

To reserve a seat, please call 956-523-2658.

Doctors Hospital, 10700 McPherson Rd, Laredo, TX 78045 956-523-2000 / FAX 956-523-0444