Colonoscopies: The Dirty Details and Why You Can't Procrastinate With Dr. Bowden-McKay of Capitol Gastro

Thanks for tuning in to the Armor Men’s Health Hour Podcast today, where we bring you the latest and greatest in medical and urology care and the best urology humor out there.In this segment,  Dr. Mistry and Donna Lee are joined by gastroenterologist Dr. Crystal Bowden-McKay of Capitol Gastro for a discussion about colon cancer risk and colonoscopies. While no one loves completing the bowel prep involved in getting a colonoscopy, it remains the best diagnostic and therapeutic tool for finding and removing colon polyps. This procedure also allows for longer intervals between screenings--so get your colonoscopy done and you might not need another one for several years! While colon cancer is often difficult to detect without screenings, there are some warning signs you should never ignore: blood in the stool, whether dark brown and tar like or bright red, should always be cause for concern. So when should you have your first colonoscopy? For most patients with an average risk, 50 is the age when you should schedule your first colonoscopy. If you're an African American with an average risk, you should start slightly sooner at 45. If you have a family history of colon cancer or advanced adenomas, meaning one first degree relative or two second degree relatives with these conditions, you should consult with your GI doctor who will likely recommend starting at 40. Other risk factors that make earlier screening necessary include having inflammatory bowel disease or a genetic predisposition to developing colon cancer. While not the most pleasant of experiences, colonoscopies are lifesaving health screenings, so call your GI today and make sure you're on schedule!You can contact Dr. Bowden-McKay at (512) 963-6022 and capitolgastro.com.This episode was previously aired on 2.6.21. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share us with a friend! As always, be well!Check our our award winning podcast!https://blog.feedspot.com/sex_therapy_podcasts/https://blog.feedspot.com/mens_health_podcasts/Dr. Mistry is a board-certified urologist and has been treating patients in the Austin and Greater Williamson County area since he started his private practice in 2007.We enjoy hearing from you! Email us at [email protected] and we’ll answer your question in an upcoming episode!Phone: (512) 238-0762Email: [email protected]: Armormenshealth.comOur Locations:Round Rock Office970 Hester’s Crossing RoadSuite 101Round Rock, TX 78681South Austin Office6501 South CongressSuite 1-103Austin, TX 78745Lakeline Office12505 Hymeadow DriveSuite 2CAustin, TX 78750Dripping Springs Office170 Benney Lane Suite 202Dripping Springs, TX 78620