MedBlog

New blood test for colon cancer is a mixed blessing

UT Southwestern discusses a blood test approved in August 2024 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to screen for colorectal cancer – what it can and cannot do, particularly when it’s compared to screening tools already available.

Keith Argenbright, M.D.

August 19, 2024

No, you shouldn’t cancel your colonoscopy based on ‘landmark’ study

Despite some misinterpretation, the NordICC study shows that colonoscopy is the best way to prevent colorectal cancer. Get the facts.

Roopa Vemulapalli, M.D.

October 19, 2022

Colonoscopy and alternative screenings key to detecting colon cancer

Age 45 is the new milestone for average-risk patients to get their first colorectal cancer screening. Get the latest screening options – including easier colonoscopy prep! – and everything you need to know about getting screened.

June 23, 2021

Death of 'Black Panther' star sheds light on young adults' colon cancer risks

As colorectal cancer cases rise in young adults, people in their 30s or 40s must never assume they’re too young to get the disease. UT Southwestern suggests that healthier lifestyle choices and earlier screenings could prevent some of these cases and facilitate early detection. Learn more.

Patricio Polanco, M.D.

August 31, 2020

No colostomy bag after colorectal cancer surgery? Avoid it with this advanced procedure

Young patients may worry that having colon surgery will require them to wear a colostomy bag. But UT Southwestern says 80-90% of patients won't need one. Learn more.

June 18, 2020

Why you should consider clinical genetic testing for hereditary colon cancer

People are fascinated with the human genome at the moment, with the popularity of direct-to-consumer tests such as 23andMe soaring. But Interpreting genetic test results can be complicated, particularly for conditions like colon cancer. At UT Southwestern, we work with patients before and after a comprehensive DNA analysis to determine if they have any hereditary risks.

Sayoni Lahiri, M.S.

March 11, 2020

Skip the colon cancer screening? Not in the U.S.

Is colon cancer screening necessary? A study out of the U.K. published in The BMJ suggests average-risk patients age 50-79 might not need a colonoscopy if they have low risk-score. But UT Southwestern disagrees when it comes to U.S. patients. Find out why in this MedBlog.

Syed Kazmi, M.D.

November 20, 2019

Does high-fructose corn syrup cause colon cancer? 6 tips for millennials

By 2030, researchers expect up to a 90 percent increase in colon cancer diagnoses in millennials. But why? In this MedBlog, UT Southwestern discusses whether the U.S. food staple high-fructose corn syrup is to blame and offers tips for millennials to reduce their risk. Learn more.

Syed Kazmi, M.D.

June 26, 2019

Specialist spotlight: Paging Dr. Magdalena Espinoza

Spotlight on a UT Southwestern Frisco gastroenterologist with expertise in treating digestive and liver conditions.

March 10, 2019