The American Cancer Society believes that preventing colorectal cancer (and not just finding it early) should be a major reason for getting tested. Having polyps found and removed keeps some people from getting colorectal cancer. You are encouraged to have tests that have the best chance of finding both polyps and cancer if these tests […]

Your doctor will give you complete instructions on how to prepare for your endoscopy. Most types of endoscopy require you to fast for up to 12 hours before the procedure, but your doctor will clarify this. Your doctor may give you laxatives or enemas to use the night before the procedure to clear your system. […]

A colonoscopy is the best screening test available for colorectal cancer. It is the only screening test that also prevents many colorectal cancers. Here are a few things you should know about this test: During a colonoscopy, your doctor examines the lining of your entire colon to check for polyps or tumors. If any polyps […]

An upper endoscopy is used to diagnose and, sometimes, treat conditions that affect the upper part of your digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach and beginning of the small intestine (duodenum). Your doctor may recommend an endoscopy procedure to: Investigate symptoms. An endoscopy may help your doctor determine what’s causing digestive signs and symptoms, such […]