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Wilmington Gastroenterology Associates
Focused on Preventing Colon Cancer
5115 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403
www.wilmingtongi.com (910) 362-1011
Left to right, back row: D. Spencer Carney, MD - William King, MD - Robert Henihan, MD - Steven Klein, MD.
Front row: Joseph Kittinger III, MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF - Mary Sauer, MD - Clinton Meyer, MD.
In 2004, Wilmington Gastroenterology opened a state-of-the-
art, nationally accredited Endoscopy Center where it
offers gastroenterological procedures expertly and cost
effectively, with exceptional continuity of care. Unlike many
clinical settings, the facility provides highly specialized equip-ment
in a soothing, comfortable atmosphere that includes
ambient music and smiling faces.
As part of its commitment to Wilmington’s digestive
health, the group is focused on increasing local awareness of
colon cancer and its preventability through screening. Its key
message: Colonoscopy can help prevent colon cancer. The phy-sicians
at Wilmington Gastroenterology recommend colonos-copy
screening for everyone 50 years of age or older—and
beginning at age 40 if there is a family history of polyps or
colon cancer.
The second leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S.,
colon cancer is associated with lifestyle factors, including smok-ing,
obesity and diets high in meat and low in fiber. The major-ity
of colon cancer is genetically related and arises from small
growths in the large intestine called polyps. Polyps are very
common, appearing in about 25% of people by age 50.
Fortunately, colon cancer is largely preventable and has
an excellent prognosis if diagnosed early. Endorsed by The
American Cancer Society and covered by most insurance,
colonoscopy is the gold standard for colon cancer screen-ing.
The procedure involves a thin, flexible tube with a digital
camera through which the physician can view the entire colon.
Compared to other screening methods, colonoscopy allows for
a comprehensive examination and removal of polyps, which is
key to prevention.
Even for those who understand its importance, colonos-copy
can be a daunting prospect. To ensure patient comfort,
Wilmington Gastroenterology offers the most advanced
sedation available for colonoscopy. Patients sleep comfort-ably
through the procedure and enjoy a rapid recovery
afterward—truly a painless colonoscopy. Learn more about
Wilmington Gastroenterology and colon cancer screening at
www.wilmingtongi.com.
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