Colonoscopies for Early Detection
Colon cancer (also called colorectal cancer or bowel cancer) is the abnormal development of cells in the colon or rectum. Colon cancer occurs in men and women at any age, but 90% of new cases occur in people over 50.
A colonoscopy enables your doctor to view the entire colon and rectum and look for signs of polyps or cancerous growths. A small, flexible tube with a light attached is gently inserted into the rectum. A video camera attached to the top of the scope sends images back to your doctor’s computer. You may be given general anesthesia or a sedative to help keep you comfortable.
Your doctor can discuss these different colon cancer screenings to help you decide which is best for you. A gastroenterologist can also answer detailed questions and perform the exam.
Request an appointment by contacting our team of specialists at 913-213-1173.
Dedicated Colorectal Care
Our team of experts at the AdventHealth Cancer Center Shawnee Mission is standing by, ready to detect, diagnose and treat colorectal cancer.
- Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer
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Symptoms can vary due to the size and location of the cancer. Signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:
- Abdominal discomfort (bloating or gas)
- Bloody stools
- Changes to bowel movements (lasting longer than four weeks)
- Rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness and fatigue
- Risk Factors of Colorectal Cancer
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If you have one or more of these risk factors, you should get screened for colorectal cancer.
- 45 years of age*
- Very overweight
- Physically inactive
- Smoker
- Lynch Syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis
- Excessive red or processed meat consumption
- Family or personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Type 2 diabetes, Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- Excessive alcohol consumption
*Check to see at what age your insurance covers colorectal screenings.
- Who Should Get Screened
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Colorectal cancer is more than 90% curable when diagnosed early. It’s why we recommend everyone over the age of 45 to get screened.
- What to Expect During a Colonoscopy
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A colonoscopy enables your doctor to view the entire colon and rectum and look for signs of polyps or cancerous growths. A small, flexible tube with a light attached is gently inserted into the rectum. A video camera attached to the top of the scope sends images back to your doctor’s computer. You may be given general anesthesia or a sedative to help keep you comfortable.
- Our Locations
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AdventHealth Shawnee Mission
9100 W. 74th Street
Shawnee Mission, KS 66204
Phone: Call913-676-2000AdventHealth South Overland Park
7820 W. 165th Street
Overland Park, KS 66223
Phone: Call913-373-2000AdventHealth Prairie Star
Formerly known as AdventHealth Lenexa
23401 Prairie Star Parkway
Lenexa, KS 66227
Phone: Call913-676-8500
Meet Our Team of Experts
View our team of experts and request an appointment with the provider who is right for you.