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Gastrointestinal Services

Colon Cancer Awareness Month

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, a reminder that colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers—but also one of the most preventable with routine screening. Early stages often have no symptoms, but warning signs may include changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or fatigue. Screening is recommended beginning at age 45 for most adults.

Shasta Regional Medical Center’s gastroenterology office offers colonoscopy screenings close to home. Ask your primary care physician for a referral to determine what screening schedule is right for you. Most insurance plans cover colorectal cancer screening for certain age ranges; check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details. Early detection saves lives.

Many Americans suffer with the discomfort of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders for years instead of taking simple steps to diagnose and treat their condition. Chronic GI disorders shouldn’t dominate your life. At Shasta Regional Medical Center, we offer advanced technology, along with a skilled staff, ready to help ease your pain.

    For more information contact us at 530-242-6122
    Or, email us at SRMC-GI@primehealthcare.com

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    Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

    Colon cancer may start without noticeable symptoms, but common signs include changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation), blood in the stool, abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Narrow stools or persistent cramps can appear in advanced stages, making early detection through screening very important.

    Prevention of Colon Cancer

    Prevention focuses on a healthy lifestyle and regular screening. Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, limiting red and processed meats, staying active, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight all help reduce risk. Colonoscopies and other screenings can detect and remove precancerous growths before they develop into cancer.

    Prathibha

    Prathibha Chandrasekaran, MD

    Dr. Prathibha Chandrasekaran, MD, is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and a dedicated leader in medical education and patient care. She serves as the Associate Program Director of Internal Medicine at Shasta Regional Medical Center, where she also leads as the Medical Director of the Endoscopy Lab. In addition, Dr. Chandrasekaran is an Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine at Touro University California, contributing to the academic development of future physicians. Committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care, Dr. Chandrasekaran helps patients find answers and relief for their gastrointestinal concerns. Referrals are processed within 2 business days, and patient appointments are typically scheduled within 10 business days. She is currently accepting Medicare, Aetna, Blue Cross, United Healthcare, and other major insurance plans.

    Caring for a Broad Range of Conditions

    The GI tract is a complicated system that may result in disorders that can affect your health. We diagnose and treat a broad range of problems including:

    • Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
    • Colonoscopy
    • Sigmoidoscopy
    • Anoscopy
    • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
    • Esophageal Dilation
    • Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
    • Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection
    • Botulinum Toxin Injection
    • Stent Placement
    • Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)
    • Feeding Tube Replacement
    • Endoscopic banding

    Referring your patients is easy and we have available openings.

    Your office can send referrals directly to our GI Lab scheduler.

    Fax number 530-244-5407.

    If you have any question, please call Shasta Regional GI Lab 530-244-5121

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