Stomach cancer is a relatively rare but nonetheless serious disease that needs to be treated as soon as possible. Before treatment can start, however, the severity of the cancer – namely whether it has spread and, if so, to what extent – must be assigned a numerical “stage” by the patient’s gastroenterologist or oncologist. This way, the patient can receive the optimal course of treatment. The earliest stage of stomach cancer is stage 0, when the cancer has not spread to other organs. From ... [Read More]
colonoscopy
How a Colonoscopy Can Save Your Life
Colorectal cancer – popularly referred to as colon cancer – is the third-most common form of cancer among both men and women in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. It is also the second deadliest. However, it is also one of the most preventable. If everyone age 50 and older had regular screenings, up to 60 percent of colon cancer deaths could be prevented, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Many cases of colon cancer can be ... [Read More]
When Would I Need an Endoscopy?
There are many reasons your doctor may recommend an endoscopy. An endoscopy is a procedure conducted by gastroenterologists – doctors specializing in diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract – to evaluate your digestive system and any suspected issues like infection, tissue damage or cancer. Two types are commonly performed: an upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD) or lower GI endoscopy. As their names imply, the first explores the upper section of the ... [Read More]
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
Have you ever heard anyone talk about having a colonoscopy? Usually it goes something like this: “The procedure wasn’t bad, oh but the prep was awful.” However, the prep is an extremely essential part of a colonoscopy, and if not done properly, often results in the need for a repeat procedure. To understand the significance of the prep, which consists of instructions to be followed in the days and hours prior to the procedure, it is not only important to be aware of the specifics of the ... [Read More]
