A new study showed people are more likely to get screened for colon cancer when their doctor lets them choose the test. For this interesting study, researchers focused on two widely used [...]
Tag: colonoscopy
Colonoscopy contamination problem spreading
Earlier this year, I told you about the widespread problems with contaminated endoscopes, the instruments used to examine the GI tract. The contaminated scopes caused infections and deaths in [...]
A test you should be getting instead of a colonoscopy
In the special “Ask the Insider” edition of Insiders’ Cures in May, I answered many good questions from readers, including one regarding how to ask your doctor about alternatives to colonoscopy. [...]
FDA turns blind eye to deadly superbugs in endoscopes
Last week, I told you about how patients at UCLA Medical Center acquired superbug infections, and even died, because of exposure to contaminated endoscopes. (Endoscopes are instruments used to [...]
Another new way to avoid costly, dangerous colonoscopies
Last summer, I advised you that a new, non-invasive colon cancer test was coming. And now it’s here! This alternative to colonoscopies became available last month. And it’s a boon to millions of [...]
More good ways to avoid colonoscopy, and more reasons you should
In August, the FDA approved a new, non-invasive colon cancer screening test called Cologuard. This safe, effective test has some real, practical advantages over dangerous and costly [...]
The controversial sides of cancer screening
Any time I comment on cancer screening, I get a great deal of feedback from readers. My recent Daily Dispatches on mammograms are one example. I received several responses–as well as a few [...]
Colonoscopy sweepstakes takes the cake
I’ve seen some stupid stunts throughout my medical career. But this latest one may take the cake. Last month, I came across something called the “CBS Cares Colonoscopy Sweepstakes.” The “lucky” [...]