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Colon Cancer Screening Specialist

Gastro Center of Maryland -  - Gastroenterologist

Gastro Center of Maryland

Board-certified gastroenterologists at the Gastro Center of Maryland, offer individualized treatment plans for colon cancer and other health conditions that affect the bowel. 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 Screening Q & A

What is Involved in a colon cancer screening?

Colon cancer screening normally includes one or more of the following tests:

  • Fecal stool sample
  • Sigmoidoscopy
  • Colonoscopy
  • Virtual colonoscopy

The fecal stool sample involves testing a small sample of the patient's stool to check for blood or other abnormalities. Sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy involve the use of a long thin tube with an attached camera that is inserted into the rectum. The difference between these two tests is that the sigmoidoscopy only evaluates the left side of the colon while the colonoscopy evaluates the entire colon. A fecal stool sample or FIT test should be performed every year, while the other tests can be performed every 5-10 years.

Do polyps always indicate colon cancer?

Almost everyone has colon polyps at some point in their lives. Although the majority of reported colon cancers begin with a polyp, not all polyps will turn into cancer. Polyps can appear at almost any age and in any segment of the colon. Abnormal cells can develop throughout the colon. The growth of abnormal cells that grow within the lining of the colon wall can lead to cancer. As cells mutate and change, the risk of colorectal cancer increases. During a colonoscopy, any polyps discovered will be removed in an attempt to reduce the possible risk of colon cancer.

How is colon cancer treated?

Colon cancer is treated in many different ways. If the cancer is found in the earliest stages, a section of the colon may be removed. If the cancer is advanced, chemotherapy and radiation may be used to shrink the cancer prior to the surgery. Once the cancer has been removed, the doctor may choose to continue chemotherapy and radiation for a specified period of time to ensure the cancer is under control. The use of chemotherapy can also help to prevent cancer cells from spreading to other areas of the body. Eating a high fiber diet and scheduling colon cancer screening tests regularly will reduce a person's risk of colorectal cancer.

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.

 

 

OUR LOCATIONS

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Columbia

7120 Minstrel Way, Suite #100, Columbia, MD 21405

410-290-6677

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Olney

3407 Olandwood Court, Suite #102, Olney, MD 20832

410-290-6677

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Riverdale

6502 Kenilworth Avenue, Suite #100, Riverdale, MD 20737

410-290-6677

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Timonium / Lutherville

1212 York Rd, Suite B201, Lutherville, MD 21093

410-290-6677

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