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Health related questions answered by our local doctors and healthcare professionals
How can I decrease the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC)?
Prevention is the key! Lifestyle factors that decrease the risk of CRC include a diet high in vegetables/fruits and low in processed meats, a healthy weight, remaining physically active and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol.
Average risk CRC screening is recommended to start at 45. Colonoscopy is the only method of screening which can detect and simultaneously remove precancerous polyps. Colonoscopy has long been considered the gold standard of CRC prevention and was recently shown to be the most effective method of screening, with a mortality reduction of 73%.
Learn more: www.aagastro.com | 410-224-2116
David Jencks, MD | Anne Arundel Gastroenterology Associates
Why should you have a primary care provider?
Primary care providers, which include doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants, offer a unique value that can greatly impact your health. One of the many reasons to consider having a primary care provider is to catch health issues early. This is accomplished through routine screenings, monitoring your health history and asking the right questions. Research shows that people who regularly visit a primary care provider go to the hospital and emergency room less than those who don’t have a primary care provider. To find a primary care provider at UM BWMC, visit umbwmc.org/primary.
Learn more: umbwmc.org/primary | 410-553-2900
Raveena Edwards, MD | University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Group – Primary Care
When should I start colon cancer screening?
Most people should start colon cancer screening at age 45. Talk to your doctor about your family history of colon cancer to find out if you should start screening sooner. If you are due for a screening, you can choose between a stool-based test which can be done at home, or a colonoscopy, which is done in a specialized center or hospital. Your doctor can help you decide which option is right for you. Either way, don’t delay. It’s not only about detecting colon cancer as early as possible, but also removing precancerous growths that may turn into cancer one day.
Learn more: Luminis.Health/Gastro | 443-569-3855
Sanmeet Singh, MD | Luminis.Health/Gastro
