- 3304 Colorado Blvd, Suite 202, Denton, TX 76210
- Serving Denton · Lewisville · Coppell
Conditions · Colon Cancer & Polyps
Colon Cancer & Colon Polyps Care in Denton, TX
Prevention starts with screening. Dr. Amjad Awan finds and removes colon polyps before they can become cancer, and guides patients through diagnosis and follow-up.
- 25+ years of GI experience
- 4.94/5 from 1,590 patient reviews
- 6 locations in Denton & Coppell
- 3 hospital affiliations
Understanding Colon Polyps
Most Colon Cancers Start as Polyps
Colon polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Most are harmless, but some types, called adenomas, can slowly turn into cancer over several years.
Because polyps rarely cause symptoms, regular screening is the best way to find and remove them early. Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when screening is done on time.
- Screening colonoscopy starting at age 45 for most adults
- Polyp removal during the same procedure
- Personalized surveillance schedules after polyps
- Earlier screening for people with family history
Risk Factors & Warning Signs
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Knowing your risk helps determine when to start screening and how often to repeat it.
Family History
A close relative with colon cancer or advanced polyps.
Prior Polyps
A personal history of adenomas or colorectal cancer.
IBD
Long-standing Crohn's colitis or ulcerative colitis.
Genetic Syndromes
Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis.
Rectal Bleeding
Blood in the stool needs prompt evaluation.
Bowel Changes
Persistent changes in stool habits or shape.
Step by Step
Our Approach to Colon Cancer Prevention
From screening to surveillance, we create a plan based on your personal and family history.
Risk Review
Dr. Awan reviews your age, symptoms and family history.
Colonoscopy
The colon is examined and polyps are removed during the same visit.
Pathology
Polyps are examined under a microscope to guide next steps.
Surveillance Plan
You receive a personalized schedule for your next colonoscopy.
Colon Cancer Screening in Denton
Preventing Colorectal Cancer
Most adults at average risk should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. If a colonoscopy is normal, it is usually repeated every 10 years. People with polyps, a family history or inflammatory bowel disease need a more frequent schedule.
Types of Colon Polyps
Adenomas and sessile serrated lesions have the potential to become cancer and are removed. Small hyperplastic polyps in the lower colon are usually low risk. The type, size and number of polyps determine when your next exam should be.
If Cancer Is Found
When colon cancer is detected, Dr. Awan coordinates prompt care with surgeons and oncologists at leading Denton County hospitals so treatment can begin without delay.
Related Reading
See When Should You Get a Colonoscopy? and our colonoscopy service page.
At a Glance
- Screening colonoscopy starting at age 45 for most adults
- Polyp removal during the same procedure
- Personalized surveillance schedules after polyps
- Earlier screening for people with family history
FAQ
Colon Cancer & Polyps FAQs
Have another question? Our team is happy to help.
Are all colon polyps cancerous?
No. Most polyps are not cancer, but some types can become cancer over time, which is why they are removed.
Do polyps cause symptoms?
Usually not. Larger polyps may cause bleeding or anemia, but most are found only during screening.
How often do I need a colonoscopy after polyps?
It depends on the number, size and type of polyps. Intervals typically range from 3 to 10 years.
When should I start screening?
Most adults should start at 45. People with a family history may need to start at 40 or earlier.
More Conditions We Treat
Explore Related Conditions
Celiac Disease
Testing, diagnosis and gluten-free guidance. Learn more →
Crohn's Disease & Ulcerative Colitis
Long-term IBD care focused on remission. Learn more →
Difficulty Swallowing
Finding and treating the cause of dysphagia. Learn more →
Hepatitis C & Cirrhosis
Curative hepatitis C treatment and cirrhosis care. Learn more →
IBS, Abdominal Pain & Bowel Changes
Answers for ongoing pain and bowel changes. Learn more →
Liver & Pancreatic Disease
Fatty liver, pancreatitis and more. Learn more →
Schedule Colon Cancer Screening
Protect your health with a colonoscopy from an experienced Denton gastroenterologist.