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Colon Cancer
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers timely, expert colon cancer care-from early screening and diagnosis to advanced minimally invasive treatments. With personalized plans, cutting-edge procedures, and supportive guidance, he helps patients reduce risks, detect growths early, and improve outcomes.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Being over the age of 50
A family history of colon cancer or polyps
Having Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
Lack of physical activity and being overweight
Eating a lot of red or processed meats
Smoking and drinking alcohol often
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in early stages
Blood in your stool or on toilet paper
Ongoing constipation or diarrhea
Sudden weight loss with no clear reason
Belly pain, cramps, or bloating
Feeling tired or weak often
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your personal and family history of colon polyps or cancer, asks about symptoms such as blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss or persistent abdominal/epigastric discomfort, and performs a focused abdominal and rectal examination.
Blood Tests and Stool Studies
He orders a complete blood count to check for anemia, measures carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels as a tumor marker, and may use a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or stool DNA test to screen for hidden blood or abnormal cells.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Colonoscopy-Gold-standard exam that visualizes the entire colon, allows for biopsy of suspicious lesions and removal of polyps in the same session.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy-Examines the rectum and lower colon segment when appropriate for screening or follow-up.
Imaging Studies
CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)-Non-invasive 3D mapping of the colon when colonoscopy is incomplete or contraindicated.
Abdominal and pelvic CT or MRI-Staging scans to assess tumor size, lymph node involvement and potential spread to the liver, lungs or other organs.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
If biopsy confirms malignancy, he may recommend molecular and genetic profiling to identify specific mutations and guide targeted therapies.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for colon cancer.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat more fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Choose lean proteins like fish, poultry, and beans
Limit red and processed meats to reduce risk
Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight
Quit smoking and minimize alcohol to improve outcomes
2. Medications
Personalized chemotherapy regimens based on tumor markers
Targeted therapies to attack specific cancer cells
Supportive medications to manage side effects and maintain quality of life
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Laparoscopic surgery for precise tumor removal
Robotic-assisted surgery for enhanced accuracy
Endoscopic polyp removal during colonoscopy
Stenting or tumor ablation to relieve blockages in advanced cases
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have colon cancer?
A colonoscopy is the most accurate way to detect polyps or cancer early. If you have symptoms or a family history, Dr. Scott will recommend screening and guide you through the process.
What is the colon cancer survival rate?
Survival rates depend on the stage at diagnosis. Early-stage colon cancer has a five-year survival rate of over 90%. Continued advances in treatment are improving outcomes even for later stages.
Can diet help lower my risk?
Yes. Eating a high-fiber diet, reducing red and processed meats, and staying physically active can lower your risk of colon cancer by up to 30%. Dr. Scott can help you develop a personalized nutrition plan.
What if I have stage 4 colon cancer?
Dr. Scott offers a multidisciplinary approach-combining chemotherapy, targeted therapies, surgery, and supportive care-to control disease, manage symptoms, and help you maintain quality of life.
When should I get screened?
For most people, screening begins at age 45. If you have a family history of colon cancer, polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease, Dr. Scott may recommend starting earlier or having exams more frequently.
Are colon cancer symptoms different for women?
Some symptoms-like abdominal pain or bleeding-can mimic gynecological issues. Always inform your doctor about any unusual bleeding, pain, or changes in bowel habits to ensure prompt evaluation.
Where can I find more colon cancer facts?
Visit the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org for comprehensive, up-to-date information on colon cancer prevention, screening, and treatment options.
