Get Tested

According to the physicians at North Ohio Gastroenterology, the chance of finding a polyp in the colon of a person over the age of 50 is about 20-percent. And a polyp has a 40-percent chance of growing into cancer. Do the math.

By: Ken McEntee
Date: 02/25/2009
Colon cancer, notes Dr. Craig Harris, co-owner of North Ohio Gastroenterology in Westlake, is the third leading cause of cancer death among men and women in the United States. A big reason for that, he explains, is that colon cancer often shows no symptoms until it is in the advanced stages.

A Real Danger
According to the American Cancer Society, which has designated March as Colon Cancer Awareness Month, more than 90-percent of people diagnosed with colon cancer are 50 and older. That’s why North Ohio Gastroenterology strongly suggests that people of that age schedule a colorectal cancer screening—even if they have no symptoms. Because more people are getting screened, the death rate from colorectal cancer is on the decline, the ACS says.

A colorectal screening, used to detect polyps in the lining of the colon, is usually covered by insurance.
Dr. Edmond Blades, also a co-owner of North Ohio Gastroenterology, says the chance of finding a polyp in the colon of a person over the age of 50 is about 20-percent. And a polyp has a 40-percent chance of growing into cancer. However, once detected, polyps can be removed through a simple and painless procedure.

About the Doctors
North Ohio Gastroenterology, a new practice established by Drs. Harris, Blades and Dr. Khaled Issa, specializes in gastrointestinal disorders, offering diagnosis and treatment. Although the practice is new, Drs. Harris, Blades and Issa have distinguished records in the Cleveland area.

Dr. Harris, who has been in private practice since 1981, did his fellowship in gastroenterology at the Cleveland Clinic and is now affiliated with Fairview General, St. John West Shore and Lakewood hospitals. His interests are in colon cancer screening, inflammatory bowel disease, treatment of peptic disorders of the stomach and esophagus.

Dr. Blades, an associate professor of clinical medicine at Case Western Reserve University, had directed the University Hospitals’ Endoscopy Unit and its gastroenterology fellowship training program. He is affiliated with St. John West Shore, Lakewood and Fairview hospitals. His interests are in pancreatic disorders, ERCP—a procedure used to diagnose problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas, inflammatory bowel disease and reflux diseases.

Dr. Issa was the chair of endoscopy at MetroHealth Medical Center for 10 years and is assistant professor of medicine at Case. He is the director of endoscopy at St. John West Shore and is also affiliated with Lakewood, Fairview and MetroHealth hospitals. His interests are in pancreatic disease, ERCP, endoscopic ultrasound, inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease and other gastrointestinal issues.

“Because of our experience, we provide a comprehensive treatment approach for all diseases,” Dr. Issa explains. “We also provide excellent care and easy access at our convenient location.”

“Not as Bad as it Used to Be”
Because of the sensitive nature of gastrointestinal issues and the procedures involved, the staff at North Ohio Gastroenterology works to ensure the privacy of patients and maintains a friendly, compassionate environment to put them at ease.

“We like to joke around to keep things relaxed, as you can see,” remarks Dr. Issa during a debate over which physician is the best looking and which holds the highest title.
On a more serious note, Dr. Issa suggests that the procedures they perform aren’t as bad as people expect and are often lifesaving.

“One of the biggest hang-ups people have about colon cancer screening isn’t the process itself but the preparation,” he said referring to the laxative used to clean out your colon prior to a screening. “You used to have to drink a lot and it was very harsh. It isn’t nearly as bad as it used to be.”

Dr. Harris says people with ongoing heartburn or acid reflux also should be checked.

“The rate of cancer of the esophagus has increased drastically over the last 30 years,” he says.
If you are experiencing any gastrointestinal issues, Drs. Harris, Blades and Issa suggest consulting with your family physician. Your primary care physician may refer you to have testing done, but where to go is up to you.

North Ohio Gastroenterology is located at 850 Columbia Road, in Westlake. Call them at 440-617-1212. This summer, the group will move into their brand new office on Bradley Road at Clemens, in Westlake.

Email This Story To A Friend

Your Friend's Email Address:

Your Name:

Your Email Address: