Dr. Mark Pochapin, director of the Division of Gastroenterology at 做厙TV Langone.
Photo: John Abbott
Doctors at 做厙TV Langone Health are taking the extra steps to make sure young adults are aware and informed about . Routine screenings are not common among people under 50, but studies are seeing an increase of diagnoses in patients in their 20s and 30s.
, director of the at 做厙TV Langone and treasurer of the American College of Gastroenterology, and Renee L. Williams, MD, assistant professor in 做厙TV Langones and Division of Gastroenterology have some advice to ensure doctors and patients alike to remain aware and proactive.
The new data raises the flag to be vigilant, Dr. Pochapin tells The New York Times. We need doctors to realize colorectal cancer is possible in younger patients, and if they are having something like rectal bleeding, this could be something more serious. Young peoples symptoms should not be dismissed.
Dr. Pochapin and Dr. Williams suggest regular checkups with a primary care physician, even when you have no medical issues. They also suggest the importance of knowing if you have a family history of colorectal cancer.
If you have a first-degree relativea parent or siblingwho had colon cancer at 50, for example, you should be screened at 40, or 10 years earlier, says Dr. Williams.
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