Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
Colon cancer is a cancer, which originates in the large intestine (colon). It is caused by an outgrowth of the cells in the inner lead of the colon in a form of tumor. Screening helps to detect the disease at an early stage and this significantly enhances its treatment.
He examines your personal and family history of colon cancer or polyps, symptoms, and diet among other risk factors.
The whole surface of the colon is examined by the camera, which finds suspicious polyps which are taken out and referred to the pathologist.
Samples that are measured include carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and overall blood counts and organ status.
Assays on familial diseases (e.g. Lynch syndrome) or molecular markers to individual therapy/screening of family members.
Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, and the presence of blood in the stool are common early warning signs.
Treatment may include systemic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and surgery to remove metastases when possible.
Survival rates vary by stage. Stage I (early detection) has a five-year survival rate of 90% or more, whereas later stages have lower rates. Individual outcomes depend on personal health factors.
Screening usually starts at age 45–50 and repeats every 10 years for average-risk individuals. High-risk patients may need more frequent examinations.
Yes. A high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with limiting red and processed meats, can help reduce risk.
Women may experience bloating, fatigue, or pelvic discomfort and should note any persistent gastrointestinal changes.
The gold standard is colonoscopy. Other effective tests include blood markers such as CEA, CT colonography, and FIT/stool DNA tests for early detection.
Absolutely. Dr. Chadha encourages collaboration with your care team to validate diagnosis and treatment plans.
Most patients resume normal activities within 2–4 weeks after laparoscopic or robotic-assisted colectomy.
Screening should start either 10 years before the age at diagnosis of the youngest affected relative or at age 40, whichever comes first.
