The colon is the lowest part of the gastrointestinal tract and is primarily associated with the disposal of waste, playing a key role in digestion. But at around the age of 50, most of us begin to become concerned with colon cancer and it's often colon polyps where colon cancer originates. Early screenings from our Rochester, NY, specialist, often employing a colonoscopy, can help us prevent colon cancer and diagnose other gastrointestinal issues. Learn more by reaching out to Dr. Prasad Penmetsa, Dr. Surinder Devgun, and Dr. Ari Chodos of Rochester Gastroenterology Associates.

Understanding Polyps

Polyps are small growths that are sometimes present in the colon, and although the cause for them isn't exactly known there are various risk factors that we should consider.

Risk factors such as being over the age of 50, having a family history of them, and being overweight and its related complications.

Although not all polyps are cancerous, the most common type of polyps all carry the potential for developing cancer. Polyps are themselves a result of abnormal cell growth and they can occur at any spot throughout the colon. There are often no symptoms but when they do manifest the results can be constipation, blood in the stool, and even nausea.

To examine for polyps our gastroenterologist will usually employ a small camera as part of a procedure known as a colonoscopy.

Colonoscopy in Rochester, NY

A colonoscopy procedure is recommended for diagnosing a variety of problems with our gastrointestinal tract. Colon polyps are something our gastroenterologist will routinely check for during a colonoscopy, and they will typically be removed right away or tested for cancer through a biopsy.

The procedure itself involved the use of a very small camera that is attached to a thin and flexible tube. This allows our doctor to thoroughly examine the lower intestine.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Penmetsa, Dr. Devgun, and Dr. Chodos of Rochester Gastroenterology Associates in Rochester, NY, and serving Victor, Pittsford, Webster, Fairport, and Brighton, NY, to find out how a colonoscopy procedure can help protect you from colon cancer. Dial (585) 227-1080 to reach the Greece office and (585) 267-4040 for the Penfield office.