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Colorectal Cancer Screening and Prevention Through Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools for preventing and detecting colorectal cancer. During this outpatient procedure, a gastroenterologist examines the lining of the colon and rectum using a thin, flexible camera called a colonoscope. If precancerous polyps are found, they can often be removed during the same procedure, helping prevent colorectal cancer before it develops.
Most people undergo colonoscopy as part of routine preventive care, while others need the procedure to evaluate digestive symptoms or abnormal test results. Regardless of the reason, colonoscopy plays an important role in maintaining long-term digestive health.
Although the procedure itself is similar, the reason for performing a colonoscopy may differ.
A screening colonoscopy is performed for patients who have no symptoms but are due for routine colorectal cancer screening because of their age or personal risk factors. The goal is to detect and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.
A diagnostic colonoscopy is recommended when symptoms or abnormal findings require further evaluation.
Common reasons include:
Your gastroenterologist will determine which type of colonoscopy is appropriate based on your medical history and current symptoms.
Dr. Saranya Addepally is a board-certified gastroenterologist with six years of clinical experience, treating a broad range of digestive and liver conditions. She is especially passionate about women’s GI health—areas where patients often feel overlooked or hesitant to seek care.
Her medical journey began in India, where she completed her training before moving to the United States to pursue advanced education in medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Arkansas.
After several years in practice, she relocated to Houston to continue serving patients in the community. Following two years with a local group, she established her own practice, grounded in the principles and core values she believes are essential to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care.
For adults at average risk, screening should begin at age 45. If you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, you may need to start earlier, often at 40 or 10 years before your youngest affected relative was diagnosed.
No. You will be sedated during the procedure, so the vast majority of patients feel nothing and do not remember the exam. Most people are surprised by how easy it was.
The exam itself usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. With check-in, preparation, and recovery from sedation, plan to be at the facility for roughly two to three hours.
The day before, you follow a clear-liquid diet and take a bowel-prep solution that empties the colon. The prep is the part most people notice most, but it is temporary, and a clean colon is what makes the exam accurate.
If your colonoscopy is normal and you are at average risk, you typically will not need another for 10 years. If polyps are found, your doctor may recommend a shorter interval.
For most U.S. insurance plans, screening colonoscopy is covered as a preventive service for adults ages 45 to 75. Our team is happy to help you verify your benefits before your visit.
A colonoscopy is simpler than most people expect. From easy preparation to same-day results, our team guides you through every step so you feel informed and comfortable.
At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, we provide:
There is no single “quick fix” when it comes to your colonoscopy. A little preparation goes a long way toward an accurate, comfortable exam. At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic we walk you through the whole process so there are no surprises. Your visit includes:
Offering Fast Track GI appointments
Specialized Gastroenterology Appointments Within 3–5 Business Days
Janie Osbourn Very professional and knowledgeable. Came highly recommended. Listens to patient concerns and questions and responds extremely cordial and patiently with great knowledge
Very professional and knowledgeable. Came highly recommended. Listens to patient concerns and questions and responds extremely cordial and patiently with great knowledge.
An exceptional professional who truly knows their field. Highly recommended by others, and they certainly lived up to it. They take the time to listen carefully to every question and concern, answering with incredible patience, warmth, and expertise.
What a great experience from check into check out to scheduling my next colonoscopy. The staff was super friendly and professional. I would definitely recommend Dr. Addepally for your next procedure.
Dr. Addepally and her staff are very thorough. They answer questions to make sure you understand your medical needs.
Dr. Adepally listened to my concerns and scheduled testing so we can move forward with a plan. From the front desk to scheduling the staff was friendly and made the process seamless. Great experience!
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