As we honor Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, what do you want our patients and families to pause and remember?
It is important to remember that colorectal cancer is a PREVENTABLE disease. Colonoscopy is the best screening tool available. Make an impact on this disease and help save lives. Spread the word.
What inspires you to work in digestive diseases?
Diseases in the digestive system are such a common problem. Being a gastroenterologist inspires me to make a difference in many people's lives. Recent technological innovations in GI have blended surgery and Endoscopy so that we can provide excellent outcomes in a minimally invasive way.
What advances have made the biggest impact in the treatment of patients with colorectal cancer over the last 5 years?
In addition to oncologic and surgical advances, Endoscopy has advanced in the past 5 years, tremendously impacting colorectal cancers. Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) and Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) have disseminated more among gastroenterologists to provide curative resection for advanced pre-cancerous polyps and even early-stage cancers.
How do you collaborate with other specialties at Smilow Cancer Hospital to care for your patients?
I am fortunate to collaborate with world-class physicians and other staff at Smilow cancer hospital. Along with formal multi-disciplinary rounds, I discuss with medical and surgical oncologists at Smilow Cancer Hospital on the phone almost every day. Together, we constantly strive to improve our patient’s outcomes.