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Colon Cancer

Gastro Center of Maryland Our Services Colon Cancer
Gastro Center of Maryland - - Gastroenterologist

Gastro Center of Maryland

If you’re between ages 45 and 75, it’s important to undergo regular colon cancer screenings. By diagnosing and treating colon cancer in its early stages, you might be able to achieve a full recovery. Board-certified gastroenterologists at the Gastro Center of Maryland provide colon cancer screening and care. Gastro Center of Maryland offers services to patients who live in the greater DMV area. To schedule a consultation, call 410-290-6677 or book an appointment online today! 

Colon Cancer Q&A

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in your large intestine (colon). If colon cancer is left undiagnosed, it can spread to other parts of the body. 

Anyone can develop colon cancer at any age, but it often occurs as people get older. It often manifests in the form of precancerous growths (polyps) on the inner lining of your colon. 

Some polyps can develop into cancer, so it’s important for your gastroenterologist to detect and remove them. Polyps don’t cause any symptoms usually, but once it progresses into cancer, they can cause a variety of symptoms:

  • Fatigue and weakness 
  • Bloody stool 
  • Weight loss
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Cramps 
  • Bloating

Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States, but fortunately, finding colon cancer through regular health screenings and receiving treatment early can increase your chances of recovery.   

What causes colon cancer?

While researchers aren’t certain about the exact cause of colon cancer, there are some risk factors that may increase your chance of developing the condition. These risks include:

  • Older age (age 50 and up)
  • A history of polyps 
  • Chronic inflammatory diseases 
  • Having a condition like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease 
  • A family history of colon cancer 
  • Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption 
  • Obesity 

Some research supports that the cause of colon cancer may be linked to dietary and lifestyle habits. A diet that is low in fiber and high in fat might play a role in the development of colon cancer. In addition, a sedentary or inactive lifestyle may also increase your risk. 

How is colon cancer diagnosed?

There are several types of screening tests that the Gastro Center of Maryland team may use to diagnose colon cancer. The type of screening test you need depends on your medical history and needs.

Colon cancer screening options may include:

 

Stool test

For a stool test, the team asks you to provide a stool sample. The test looks for abnormal DNA or blood in your stool. 

 

Flexible sigmoidoscopy 

During a flexible sigmoidoscopy, the Gastro Center of Maryland team uses a tube with a light and camera to evaluate the lower portion of your colon and rectum. This test looks for any signs of abnormal tissue or polyps.

 

Colonoscopy 

Colonoscopy is the gold standard for screening colon cancer. During your colonoscopy, the team evaluates your large intestine, checking for abnormal tissue or polyps.

 

To find out more about colon cancer screening and care, call the Gastro Center of Maryland or book an appointment online today.

Custom testimonials

  • "Everyone at the office is wonderful"

    —Anne S.

  • "The Annapolis office was a delight to visit. Everyone answered my questions and calmed my fears. I have no problem with my doctor conducting my procedure in a few weeks."

    —GRETCHEN H.

  • "I have been happy with the staff and care I've received here so far satisfied with my overall experience"

    —BONNIE K.

  • "Highly recommend Dr. Rosenbloom. I went to see him with some concerns and had a ton of anxiety and fear. "

    —BRETT C.

  • "All of the staff are really nice and helpful. Colleen Abell is so easy to talk to, she listens to what you have to say and is determined to help with the any concerns ..."

    —CRISTINA R

  • "Dr. Rosenbloom is the best . He takes the time to listen and after suffering for 3 yrs going back and forth to my primary. Dr . Rosenbloom figured out exactly what I ..."

    —MICHELLE P

  • "Very friendly each and everyone is ready to help you at every step. I love going there."

    —ASHVIN S.

  • "Been a patient for about a year now. Dr. Castillo is fantastic, along with Colleen. She was very attentive to my concerns and showed a lot of compassion. Would highly ..."

    —ANGELA O.

  • "Friendly physician and nursing staff with great bedside manner. Couldn't be more pleased with the experience."

    —Dennis K.

  • "Great Staff awesome experience."

    —Mel S.

  • "From first contact when setting up the appointment to the appointment itself, I was welcomed with nothing less than professionalism, kindness, and had my mind put at ease in being able to trust the staff. The front desk was nice and friendly, the assistant who took my vitals and initial information was attentive, and Dr. Rosenbloom was amazing. He actually took his time to listen to my problems, conducted the start of a game plan with concerns and safety in mind at the front of everything, and was very easy to talk to. He made an effort to ensure I understood (I'm not a doctor, nor do I pretend to be when given medical terminology or information outside of what the average person would know), and he not only got that, but was respectful in his responses to the point where I felt like he was making sure we were on the same page without being condescending. I never once felt rushed during my appointment, and felt really great walking out. A good doctor in any field is hard to find these days, so don't pass one up when you find one. Dr. Rosenbloom is still one of the "good ones." I highly recommend him as a doctor and his office."

    —Courtney C.

  • "The doctor and nurses were very friendly and nice! I would totally recommend anyone to use their services!! ♥️ s/o to nurse Johanna* for her incredibly human treatment towards me since I was very nervous and afraid"

    —Jimena C.

  • "Wonderful from the Dr to the staff perfect."

    —Jackie G.

  • "I was very pleased with the services. You were all very nice. The office was so easy to get to and it is nice and clean."

    —Ann R.

  • "Dr. Prakash was great! Extremely knowledgeable and took her time to share information and answer questions. Nurses, office personnel, and staff were very kind and knowledgeable as well.."

    —Mary T.

  • "I loved it there. Everyone was very friendly and professional the most pleasant experienced I’ve ever had."

    —Copeland S.

  • "A carrying staff that search for way to solve your health problems. You are treated as a family member not as just another patient. They are incredible at seeing you at your appointment time."

    —Larry G.

  • "I was very satisfied with the help that I received, the kind people, personalities and service from Gastro Center Of Maryland!"

    —Stanley H.

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7120 Minstrel Way, Suite #100 & #211, Columbia, MD 21045

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