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Colon Cancer Specialist

Los Angeles Gastroenterology Clinic S. Radi Shamsi, MD Our Services Colon Cancer

Los Angeles Gastroenterology Clinic

S. Radi Shamsi, MD

Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist located in Santa Monica, CA

Colon cancer remains one of the more common forms of cancer, in spite of increased awareness and simple prevention options. Most of the steps you can take to avoid colon cancer are quick common sense changes, that increase your overall health and well-being. At Los Angeles Gastroenterology Clinic in Santa Monica, California, industry-leading gastroenterologist S. Radi Shamsi, MD, can treat you if you’ve been diagnosed with colon cancer. Or if you have a family history of it, he’ll work with you to help you bring your risk level down. His caring team will help you with all of your colon cancer concerns.

Colon Cancer Q&A

When should I start screening for colon cancer?

Everyone over age 50 should schedule a colon cancer screening, and follow through with it. This easy exam is the best way to find the polyps that one in four people over age 50 live with. Plus, Dr. Shamsi and his team can treat you and support you every step of the way.

At what point should I see Dr. Shamsi?

Dr. Shamsi is happy to invite you in as a patient if you have any gastrointestinal concerns, especially if you have a family history of colon cancer. But if you have symptoms of colon cancer, make an appointment right away. General symptoms include:

  • Bloody stools
  • Abdominal cramping
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Thin stools


While these symptoms may result from many different conditions, they can also appear if you have colon cancer, especially if you’ve had it for a length of time.

Can I prevent colon cancer?

Sometimes. Following a balanced diet and an active lifestyle can help you maintain a healthy weight. These are excellent ways to reduce your chances of contracting colon cancer. High fiber diets are much better than those laden with fat and cholesterol.

Colon cancer is more likely to appear among obese adults, especially obese men. Eating fire-charred foods, such as barbecued foods, increase your chances of developing colon cancer.

Is colon cancer hereditary?

It can be. Your family's medical history can certainly help determine the likelihood of your developing colon cancer. There are genetic predispositions for colon cancer that should be considered. If anyone in your family has had a history of colon cancer, polyps, or other cancers, you should discuss this with Dr. Shamsi.

Will lifestyle changes reduce my risk of colon cancer?

Possibly. Outside factors that can increase your possibility of colon cancer include smoking and exposure to radiation. If you smoke, make plans now to quit and begin feeling better. If your job or other medical condition subject you to radiation that exceeds our normal background amounts, you let Dr. Shamsi know. It may be possible to avoid some radiation sources, such as barium enemas, in favor of procedures such as a colonoscopy.

Dr. Shamsi has developed a diet that meets the guidelines for a proper diet, and he is happy to share it with you. Contact his office today to schedule a colon cancer screening and replace your fears with knowledge you can act on.

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