Sigmoidoscopy: Purpose, procedure and how it compares to a colonoscopy
An anoscopy examines the anus, and a colonoscopy examines the colon. So, what does a sigmoidoscopy examine? Hint: the answer is in the name.
A sigmoidoscopy – sometimes called a flexible sigmoidoscopy – is a procedure doctors use primarily to see inside the rectum and sigmoid colon.
You may be wondering what conditions a sigmoidoscopy can help diagnose and how a sigmoidoscopy differs from a colonoscopy. Here, I’ll answer...
Immunotherapy and colorectal cancer: Where we are and what’s ahead
The immune system defends the body from viruses and bacteria. But it’s not as successful in killing cancer on its own. Immune checkpoint inhibitors...
Is foul-smelling poop ever a symptom of cancer?
Some foods — such as beans, eggs and cabbage — are known to cause foul-smelling gas and bowel movements...
How an electrical engineer is making a big impact on cancer research
Xiling Shen, Ph.D., was an electrical engineering professor when a landmark discovery prompted him to shift the focus of his work and dedicate his lab to precision medicine.
Throughout his life, Shen had felt the pull of medicine. As a high school student in Shanghai, he dreamed of becoming a doctor. But when he was in high school, he lost his uncle to colorectal cancer. Watching his uncle suffer caused Shen to fear that a career...
‘How I knew I had colorectal cancer’: Six survivors share their symptoms
Constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain can all be symptoms of colorectal cancer.
But they can also be signs of other conditions...
Stage III colon cancer survivor grateful for MD Anderson’s expertise
There was a point during colorectal cancer treatment when Tommy Allen didn’t think he was going to live. He was in pain 24 hours a day, the...
When to worry about blood in your stool (rectal bleeding)
Poop may be the favorite topic of preschoolers, but very few adults feel comfortable discussing it. And, if a problem develops in that area...
Colon cleanse: Health or hype?
You’ve probably heard that flushing out your colon can improve your health.
Ads for colon cleansing claim health benefits such as weight...
Food allergies vs. cancer symptoms: How can you tell the difference?
Diarrhea, itching and rashes can all be signs of a food allergy. They could also be symptoms of some cancers, including colorectal cancer,...
Rectal cancer survivor finds connection and comfort at MD Anderson
Kim Phillip was diagnosed with rectal cancer in November 2020. She was 46 at the time, so it was considered young-onset colorectal cancer....