Patient Education
Colon Cancer Screening
Thoughtful, well-timed colorectal cancer screening — coordinated around your risk, your history, and your comfort.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when screening begins on time, and Dr. Golian helps you choose the right approach as part of your preventative medicine care in Los Angeles. Whether that means a colonoscopy referral or a convenient stool-based test, we coordinate every step so nothing falls through the cracks.
Symptoms & Warning Signs
Early colorectal cancer often causes no symptoms at all — which is exactly why screening matters. Tell Dr. Golian if you notice any of the following.
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- A persistent change in bowel habits, such as new diarrhea or constipation
- Stools that are unusually narrow or thin
- Ongoing abdominal cramping, bloating, or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue
- A feeling that the bowel does not fully empty
Causes & Risk Factors
- Age 45 and older, when routine screening is recommended for most adults
- A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's or ulcerative colitis
- Inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome or familial polyposis
- A diet high in processed or red meat, smoking, or heavy alcohol use
- Type 2 diabetes, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle
How Dr. Golian Manages Colon Cancer Screening
Dr. Golian begins by reviewing your age, symptoms, and personal and family history to recommend the screening method and interval that fit you. For average-risk adults, that may be a periodic stool-based test; when a colonoscopy is appropriate, she arranges a specialist referral to a trusted gastroenterologist, often through coordinated care including Cedars-Sinai specialists.
If results are abnormal, she walks you through the findings, ensures timely follow-up, and keeps your records and next steps organized. Because screening connects to your overall health, she also looks at related risks such as type 2 diabetes and weight, supporting you with a clear, unhurried plan.
Staying Ahead Through Prevention
Beyond screening, simple habits meaningfully lower colorectal cancer risk. A lifestyle modification plan emphasizing fiber-rich foods, regular movement, and limited alcohol can make a real difference.
Dr. Golian helps you build these changes into daily life and keeps your screening schedule on track year after year, so prevention becomes effortless rather than something you have to remember.
Frequently Asked Questions
1When should I start colon cancer screening?
2Do I have to get a colonoscopy, or are there other options?
3How often do I need to be screened?
4Does Dr. Golian perform the colonoscopy herself?
5I have no symptoms. Do I still need screening?
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Stay Ahead of Colon Cancer With Timely Screening
Let Dr. Golian help you choose and coordinate the colon cancer screening that's right for you.
Schedule a Consultation