Welcome to Simply Screening

A part of Gastroenterology Associates, LTD,

a division of Gastroenterology and Liver Specialists of Tidewater, LTD

Risk Factor Quiz

Are you at higher-than-average risk for Colon Cancer? Take our short self-assessment quiz and find out.

  • Are you over age 50? Yes or No
  • Do you smoke? Yes or No
  • Are you obese or physically inactive? Yes or No
  • Do you consume a diet with a high percentage of red meats or fried foods? Yes or No
  • Are you diabetic? Yes or No
  • Do you have a family or personal history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps? Yes or No
  • Do you have a history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's disease? Yes or No

Did you answer "yes" to one or more of these questions?
If so, you are at increased risk for developing colon cancer. Please talk with your primary physician to find out your personal risks for this disease, or call our office at 757 547-2673 (54-SCOPE).

Have you had YOUR colonoscopy? No? What's holding you back? Make your appointment today!

Did You Know These Basic Facts About Colon Cancer?

  • Colorectal cancer is curable over 90% of the time with timely removal of pre-cancerous polyps.
  • Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. for men and women combined.
  • This year, more than 50,000 Americans will die from colorectal cancer, and around 132,000 new cases will be diagnosed. Most never had any symptoms.
Most of these deaths could be prevented by screening colonoscopy. Get yours now!

So, why haven't you gotten your colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is now recommended for everyone at age 50-- especially those without symptoms. A colonoscopy can diagnose colon cancer in its early or precancerous stages. At least forty percent of Americans by age fifty have one or more polyps, and these polyps if undetected may progress to cancer.

I've got some theories about why you're hesitating to have this life saving screening. I think you're thinking...

"I don't think I need one."

False! A huge 6% of Americans get colon cancer (that's 3 cancers in the next 50 people you see), and only one in ten had any family member who had colon cancer. At fifty years old, as many as 40% have the mushroom-like 'polyps' that can grow up to cancer, that we can remove by colonoscopy. Colon cancer usually has no symptoms until very late, so you don't want to wait until you pass blood, get a low blood count, or have changes in the shape or consistency of your bowel movements.

"I can't take the time."

Don't worry. We offer 'direct access' if you wish, so you can meet us for your brief history and exam, and have your procedure on the very same day!

"I'm worried about how much it'll cost."

Most health insurances cover screening colonoscopy at no or very low out-of-pocket cost, and insurance carriers in Virginia are obligated by law to cover screening colonoscopy in asymptomatic folks. Don't allow cost to keep you from prevention of colon cancer.

"I'm scared of what you'll find/of having the procedure."

We understand. Dr. Raymond and our nurses will calm your fears with straight talk and caring. Unlike many medical practices, we're available to you!

Don't neglect, early detect! We invite you to read more about your need for colonoscopy, then call 757-547-2673 and we'll be delighted to schedule your screening colonoscopy.

We look forward to seeing you, inside and out!

Patricia L. Raymond MD, FACP, FACG

Simply Screening: Total Endoscopic Health and Prevention

Gastroenterology Associates, LTD,

a division of Gastroenterology and Liver Specialists of Tidewater, LTD

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