Colonoscopies Prevent Colon Cancer
By age 45, you should start getting colonoscopies to check for early signs of colon cancer. These exams use a tube with a light and camera to help a doctor look for polyps (lumps) that could be cancerous or turn into cancer. Your doctor may be able to remove polyps during the same procedure to reduce your cancer risk.
Ask your primary care clinician to:
- Make a referral for your screening
- Recommend a screening schedule based on your age and personal and family health history
When scheduling your screening, let us know if you’d like a fast-acting intravenous (IV) sedative to help you relax during the exam.
High Detection Rate of Precancerous Polyps
You can have peace of mind knowing CentraCare’s gastroenterologists remove precancerous polyps at a higher rate than the national average. That means you’re less likely to develop colon cancer thanks to our care.
Interventional Endoscopy (Less Invasive Treatment)
In the past, polyps in hard-to-reach areas of the colon usually needed surgical removal. But at CentraCare Digestive Center in St. Cloud, a doctor may be able to remove them with a less invasive, interventional procedure. Instead of making an incision, the physician uses an endoscope (lighted tube) to see inside your intestine and remove the polyps. If you qualify for the endoscopic approach, you’ll benefit from:
- Fewer side effects
- Faster recovery
- More affordable care
High Performer in Colon Cancer Surgery
If you need surgery to treat colon cancer, you can feel confident in the quality of care you’ll receive at CentraCare – St. Cloud Hospital. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report named us a high-performing hospital for colon surgery, putting us in the top 10% of hospitals. The distinction recognizes our:
- Success in preventing long hospital stays
- High number of patients (meaning we’re very experienced)
- High nurse-to-patient ratio (meaning more personal attention for you)
Patient Comments
Read how some of your neighbors in Central Minnesota benefited from digestive health services at CentraCare.
It was a very good experience, not as big of a deal as some have made it out to be — easy and everyone was pleasant. All areas of my visit were very good, it was not stressful at all!
I honestly couldn't have asked for a better experience than what I had at the St. Cloud Hospital. All the nurses and reception personnel were kind, sensitive and respectful. I had many questions and they patiently helped me with all of them and at the same time calmed my nerves. I would rather not have had to be there but since I was I couldn't have asked for anything more.
I couldn't believe how fast I was able to be seen! It was very clean and had a professional atmosphere. Personable people made me feel at ease. Keep up the great work!
Registration couldn't have been easier or have taken less time. The staff and doctors are way above the norm and are an exceptional work team. It's St. Cloud Hospital for all my procedures and emergencies. You can't beat the best!
Emergency Care
If you experience a GI emergency, your local ambulance may bring you to CentraCare – St. Cloud Hospital for treatment. Afterward, you can return to your local hospital to recover. This approach expands your access to advanced care in rural communities of Central Minnesota.
Prepare for Your Procedure
Have a test or treatment coming up? View our comprehensive list of GI preparation instructions.
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