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Early Detection |
 Biopsy
equipment and snares (thin wire loops) are passed through the scope and are
used to lasso any polyps or small tumors present. Electrical heat
(electrocautery is applied to painlessly remove them. |
Cancer of the colon is a
serious but readily detected malignancy. Fortunately, colon cancer is one of
the most curable forms of cancer. When detected in its earliest stages more
than 90 percent of patients diagnosed with colon cancer can be cured. The key
to early detection of colon polyps and cancer is the concern and willingness of
each person to seek medical attention from a physician.
Screening test used in physician’s offices such as testing for blood in the stool and routine sigmoidoscopy are often good initial tests. They are not, however, as thorough or as reliable as a colonoscopy to find polyps or cancers. Colon cancer is one of the more curable forms of cancer. Statistics show a 90% reduction in expected colon cancer by having benign polyps removed and a 95% reduction in colon cancer deaths. |