Colorectal Cancer Screening

Several tests have been developed to help gastroenterologists screen for colon cancer. Since the majority of all colon cancers begin as polyps along the intestinal wall, these tests are specially designed to either spot growths in the lower intestine or otherwise detect the presence of blood in a person’s stool. Each test offers advantages and disadvantages – something patients should discuss in detail with their healthcare providers when deciding to undergo colorectal cancer screening. When performed regularly, colorectal cancer screenings can detect cancer before it has a chance to spread – potentially saving a life.  

Did you know…

that colon cancer is the third most common non-skin cancer in men and women? Most colon cancers begin as a small growth along the inner lining of the intestine? These growths are known as polyps, and they are very common with age. Though most colon polyps are benign and will not turn into cancer, one type – adenomas – may be pre-cancerous and should be removed as a preventative measure.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I first be screened for colorectal cancer?

You should talk with your gastroenterologist about the best time for you to begin colorectal cancer screening. For most people, age 50 is the recommended age for a first colonoscopy. However, your doctor may suggest earlier screening if you have a family history of colon cancer, have blood in your stool, or have specific factors that could raise your risk of colon cancer.

How often will I need colorectal cancer screening in St. Petersburg?

Colorectal cancer is most easily prevented and treated when detected in its earliest stages. It can take many years for pre-cancerous polyps to turn into colorectal cancer, so most people can go several years between screenings, depending on the type of test being administered. Patients undergoing flexible sigmoidoscopy or barium enema, for example, need to be screened every 5 years. Those undergoing colonoscopy only need to be screened once every 10 years. People with an elevated risk of colon cancer or a history of polyps may need colorectal cancer screening in more often. Also, your doctor may order a fecal occult blood test, fecal immunochemical test or a stool DNA test once per year in between screenings to check for the presence of colon cancer.

Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk of developing colon cancer?

The chief risk factor for colon cancer is age, however, there certain lifestyle factors that may contribute to a person’s likelihood of developing the disease. Cigarette and excessive alcohol use are known risk factors, as are obesity and inactivity. We recommend that patients stop smoking, drink only in moderation, and adopt healthy eating and exercise habits.

Gastroenterologist Services

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Patient Reviews

" I have been having my endoscopy with Dr. Kamath for the past 4 years. I would recommend anyone to have their procedures done at this facility. The staff is professional, loving and efficient. Everyone knows what they are doing so there’s no confusion. Dr. Kamath greets me with a smile each time I’ve met him and handled my visits to his office like I’m a human being and never a number. The facility is clean . Smells and looks great and my favorite of all is… I never wait long. The office gives you an appointment, and they take you on time. I’ll go to dr Kamath and recommend him always."
- Ruth Ilyas

Our Locations

Bay Area Endoscopy and Surgery Center
5771 49th St North
St. Petersburg, FL 33709
Tel: (727) 528-2261 

Florida Digestive Specialists
5651 49th Street
St. Petersburg, FL 33709
Tel: (727) 443-4299   Fax: (727) 443-0255

Our Hospitals

Northside Hospital
6000 49th Street North
St. Petersburg, FL 33709
Tel: (727) 521-5158

St. Petersburg General Hospital
6500 38th Ave North
St Petersburg, FL 33710
Tel: (727) 461-8057