In the United States, regular screenings for digestive health, particularly colorectal cancer, are not as widespread as they should be. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 68.8% of adults aged 50 to 75 years were up-to-date with colorectal cancer screening as of 2020. This is a significant figure, but it still falls short of the goal of 80% set by the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable for 2025 gastrointestinal screenings such as liver function tests, upper endoscopies, and fecal occult blood tests are also underutilized. For example, liver disease screening is recommended for individuals with risk factors such as chronic alcohol use or a family history of liver disease, yet many people with these risk factors do not get screened. This lack of routine testing contributes to late-stage diagnoses and poorer health outcomes.
Despite the proven benefits of early detection, many individuals still fail to prioritize gastrointestinal screenings, partly due to factors like lack of awareness, cost, and fear of the procedures. Efforts to increase screening participation are essential to improve overall digestive health and reduce preventable diseases.
Gastrointestinal (GI) health is crucial for overall well-being, as the digestive system plays a key role in absorbing nutrients and eliminating waste. However, GI diseases are widespread, and many can be life-threatening if left undetected. Routine screenings, such as colonoscopies, liver function tests, and endoscopies, are vital in detecting potential problems early—often before any symptoms are noticeable. Early detection enables effective treatments and prevents the progression of serious conditions like colorectal cancer, liver cirrhosis, and pancreatitis.
In this blog, we will discuss the importance of regular GI screenings, how they help with early detection, and why routine check-ups are essential for long-term digestive health.
Many GI diseases can develop with few or no symptoms, making them easy to overlook. By the time symptoms do show up, the disease may have already reached an advanced stage, making treatment more challenging and less effective. Regular GI screenings help catch issues early, increasing the likelihood of successful treatment and even preventing some conditions altogether.
Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, yet it is highly preventable and treatable when detected early. A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for identifying polyps (precancerous growths) and early-stage colorectal cancer. During this procedure, a gastroenterologist uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the colon and rectum, identifying potential risks before they progress.
The liver plays a critical role in filtering toxins, metabolizing nutrients, and producing proteins. Diseases such as cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and hepatitis can develop quietly, with few or no symptoms until significant damage occurs. Liver function tests (LFTs) measure various blood enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin levels to assess liver health.
An upper endoscopy is a procedure used to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, the first part of the small intestine. It’s an essential tool for diagnosing conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, and even stomach cancer.
The fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is a non-invasive screening tool used to detect hidden blood in stool, a potential sign of colorectal cancer or polyps. It is commonly used alongside colonoscopy to screen individuals at average risk for colorectal cancer.
Routine medical check-ups are critical for maintaining long-term digestive health. Even if you feel fine, regular visits to a gastroenterologist enable early identification of potential GI problems. Many GI diseases can be controlled or even prevented if caught early through lifestyle adjustments, medication, or minor procedures.
Early detection of GI diseases through regular screenings is critical for preventing severe outcomes. Diseases like colorectal and pancreatic cancer have significantly better survival rates when caught early, making routine screenings a powerful tool in saving lives. Furthermore, lifestyle changes, such as improving diet or reducing alcohol consumption, can prevent further damage in conditions like fatty liver disease or GERD.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms or issues mentioned above, immediately seek professional help. Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, at GastroDoxs, is a trusted gastroenterologist providing expert care for a wide range of digestive concerns. With three convenient locations in Houston and surrounding areas—including Brenham, Copperfield, Cypress, Fulshear, Jersey Village, Richmond, Spring Branch, Waller, and Willowbrook—GastroDoxs is here to support your digestive health. Schedule your consultation today and take control of your well-being.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
