Colon Cancer Screening Specialist

Bharat Dasani, MD -  - Gastroenterologist

GI Endoscopy Practice

Bharat Dasani, MD

Gastroenterologist located in Riverdale, NJ & Parsippany, NJ

Colon cancer ranks as the third most common major cancer in the United States. It’s also one of the most curable and preventable types of cancer. If you have concerns about colon cancer or you’re in need of a colon cancer screening, experienced gastroenterologist Bharat Dasani, MD, and the team at GI Endoscopy Practice can help. To schedule your colon cancer screening, call the office in Riverdale or Parsippany, New Jersey, or book online today.

Colon Cancer Screening Q&A

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects your large intestines. The cancer usually starts as a polyp, which is a benign growth that forms in the lining of the colon. 

Finding and removing these polyps before they turn cancerous may prevent you from developing colon cancer.


When should I have a colon cancer screening?

The team at GI Endoscopy Practice determines when you should have a colon cancer screening. Your risk of developing colon cancer increases as you get older and you should start routine colon cancer screening between ages 45-50. 

If you have a personal history of colon polyps or family history of colon cancer, you may need to start colon cancer screening at an earlier age. You may also benefit from a screening if you have signs and symptoms of colon cancer, such as:


  • Change in bowel habits
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Blood in your stool
  • Abdominal pain
  • Weakness or fatigue


You need to repeat your colon cancer screening periodically. The frequency of your screenings depends on the type of colon cancer screening test performed.    


What are the types of colon cancer screenings?

There are several techniques available to screen for colon cancer.

Stool test

Colon polyps tend to bleed and the stool test checks your stool for blood. You may need to repeat your stool test every 1-3 years.

Sigmoidoscopy

A sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that evaluates the sigmoid colon, which is the last segment of your large intestines. During the sigmoidoscopy colon cancer screening, Dr. Dasani uses a flexible scope equipped with a light and camera to closely evaluate the lining of your sigmoid colon. 

You may need to repeat this colon cancer screening test every 5-10 years. 

Colonoscopy

During a colonoscopy, Dr. Dasani uses a colonoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera) to evaluate the lining of your entire colon. It’s the most comprehensive colon cancer screening tool. 

The colonoscopy colon cancer screening is repeated every 10 years. 

Virtual colonoscopy

During a virtual colonoscopy, a CT scan is used to evaluate your colon. You need to repeat a virtual colonoscopy every five years. 

Colon cancer is common but preventable. To schedule your colon cancer screening, call GI Endoscopy Practice or book online today.