Answer: Yes

Many people are at risk for colon cancer. Regular screenings and routine follow-ups are very important for colon cancer prevention.

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Am I at risk for Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer, in both males and females. The risk of colon cancer rises substantially after age 50, but every year there are numerous cases reported in younger people. A person with one first degree relative (parent, sibling or child) with colon cancer is 2 to 3 times as likely to develop the cancer as someone who does not have an affected relative or least 3 relatives that have or had colorectal cancer. However, this does not mean that people without a family history are not at risk. In fact, about 80% of new colon cancer cases are diagnosed in people who would not be identified as "high risk".

What are the Signs of Colon Cancer?

Unfortunately, the early stages of colon cancer may not have any symptoms. This is why it is important to have screening tests done even though you may feel well. As the polyp grows into a tumor, it may bleed or obstruct the colon, causing symptoms. These symptoms include:

• Bleeding from the rectum
• Blood in the stool or toilet after a bowel movement
• A change in bowel habits
• Cramping pain in the abdomen
• Feeling the need to have a bowel movement when you don't actually have to
• Diarrhea or Constipation
• Unexplained weight loss

How Can I Prevent Colon Cancer?

From the time the first abnormal cells start to grow, it usually takes about 10 to 15 years for them to develop into colorectal cancer. Regular colorectal cancer screening or testing is one of the most powerful weapons in preventing colorectal cancer. Screening can also result in finding colorectal cancer early, when it is highly curable. You can lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer by managing the risk factors that you can control, such as:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Low-fat diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in red meat
• Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy body weight may aide in prevention.
• Under go screening colonoscopy if you are experiencing and signs of colon cancer
• Colonoscopy starting at age 50 or 10 years earlier than a relative who had colon cancer or polyps.

Practice News

Congratulations to our newest Associate, Julian Perez, M.D., for obtaining his Board Certification in Gastroenterology!

We've been featured in a news story! - Health Matters: Detecting AVMs with a pill camera

On November 6, 2011 Dr Weiss and Staff participated in the Crohn’s & Colitis 1.2 mile walk, “Take Steps to be Heard” at Lakes Regional Park in Ft Myers. Gastroenterology Associates had taken donations for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation and will continue to support the cause. Barbara Cioffi our practice representative had set up a table for digestive awareness at the event and coordinated with physicians and staff to get involved. If you would like more information on this foundation or would like to donate to our team go to this direct link here.

Employee of the Quarter
Congratulations! Janet Ramirez has been awarded the employee of the fourth quarter for 2011, she has been with the practice for 13yrs and is working in the Billing Office. Janet had been recognized by staff and management as a team player, she is someone who goes above and beyond. Great Job – Keep up the good work!

New Certified Physician Assistant Joins Our Practice
Please welcome our new associate Daniel Murphy, P.A.-C; he is a certified physician assistant. Daniel Murphy will be working with Dr Bay's patients and will have office hours at our Ft Myers location. If you need an appointment call us at 239-275-8882 to get scheduled.

New Physician Joins Our Practice

We are pleased to introduce our new associate Julian A. Perez, M.D. who is accepting new patients in both Ft Myers and Cape Coral offices. Dr Perez is also bilingual in English and Spanish, Call our office today to schedule an appointment.