Colon Cancer Screening

Colon cancer screening is essential for preventing colorectal cancer and detecting disease at an early, highly treatable stage. At North Shore Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Centers, our board certified gastroenterologists provide comprehensive colon cancer screening in Westlake and Brooklyn, OH. We offer various screening tools including colonoscopy, the gold standard screening for prevention and detection of colon cancer. Because colorectal cancer (CRC) is often silent in its earliest stages, regular screening beginning at age 45 is recommended for protecting long-term digestive health and significantly reducing the risk of cancer-related complications.

A close-up of an elderly person's hands clutching their lower abdomen, illustrating symptoms of gastrointestinal distress, pelvic pain, or discomfort that may require a colonoscopy or GI evaluation.

Why Screening Matters

According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death among men and women in the United States. When detected through screening at its earliest stage, the survival rate exceeds 90 percent, making early detection critical. Unfortunately, many individuals do not experience symptoms until the disease has progressed. Regular screening allows physicians to identify and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.

The United States Preventive Services Taskforce recommends people aged 45 or older to begin routine screening, even without symptoms. Screening may need to begin earlier if you have certain risk factors, including a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (especially ulcerative colitis) or colon polyps, a family history of colorectal cancer, inherited syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or FAP, or lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and sedentary habits. African-American individuals are also at higher risk and may require earlier evaluation.

Conditions Diagnosed Through Screening

Colon cancer screening can detect precancerous polyps, early-stage cancer, and conditions affecting the structure and function of the large intestine. These include polyps, early colorectal tumors, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulosis, and sources of unexplained rectal bleeding. Screening also allows gastroenterologists to identify changes in bowel patterns that may require further evaluation. Identifying these conditions early supports effective treatment and helps prevent progression of the diseases.

Screening Options

North Shore Gastroenterology clinics in Westlake and Brooklyn, OH, provides several screening methods to evaluate the colon and rectum:

Stool-based tests check for hidden blood or abnormal DNA markers in the stool. These tests are less invasive and convenient for at-home use, but they must be performed more frequently and may require a follow-up colonoscopy if results are abnormal.

  • Visual examinations allow the provider to evaluate the structure of the colon and rectum directly. This may involve flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. Colonoscopy not only identifies abnormalities but also allows for the removal of polyps and other lesions during the same visit, reducing cancer risk immediately.

For adults with average risk, screening is recommended between the ages of 45 to 75. Your gastroenterologist may advise earlier or more frequent testing based on your medical history, symptoms, or genetic risk.

Colon Cancer Screening in Westlake & Brooklyn, OH

If it’s time to begin colon cancer screening or you have risk factors for colorectal cancer, contact North Shore Gastroenterology at (440) 808-1212 or request an appointment online to schedule a visit with one of our gastroenterologists.