The good news is that screening colonoscopy has been shown to be a very successful weapon in the battle against colon cancer. Early curable cancers are being found and removed in time. Even better, many unexpected pre-cancerous colon polyps are being detected at colonoscopy and removed - thus, many potential colon cancers prevented.

Colonoscopy is now one technique recommended by the American Cancer Society for all adults over age 50. Since Congress approved legislation in July 2001 expanding insurance coverage for colon cancer screening, there has been a steady increase nationwide in the number of individuals referred for this exam. Some private insurers are following suit. That's good news.

Unfortunately, all across the country, demand for screening is now outpacing availability. We can see this trend locally as well. Three Rivers Endoscopy Center in Moon Township has been receiving a greater number of requests for screening colonoscopy than ever before. Recognizing a need to expand our services, Three Rivers Endoscopy Center has opened a third Operating Room in which colonoscopy can be performed.

Gastroenterologist, Dr. Lester Stine commented that "The addition of this third room will help us accommodate the growing demand for colonoscopy, and, hopefully, provide shorter waiting times for appointments. We have added more equipment and trained additional staff to handle the increased number of patients. Our mandate from the beginning has been to provide high quality medical care in a friendly personalized environment. I believe we have been able to accomplish this in the past and this current expansion will allow us to continue in the future."

Click HERE for a virtual tour of Three Rivers Endoscopy Center.