What to Know About Colonoscopies

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy looks for changes or abnormalities in the colon and rectum. It is performed by inserting a small camera at the end of a tube into the rectum, which allows the doctor to view the entire inside of the colon. The most common reason for a colonoscopy is to screen for colon cancer and colon polyps. It can also identify signs of ulcerative colitis, diverticulosis and Crohn’s disease as well as the cause of symptoms such as gastrointestinal bleeding and chronic diarrhea. Not only is it an important screening tool, but it can also be used as a therapeutic method to remove polyps and decompress a colonic twist, among other uses.

Why should I be concerned about colon cancer?

Approximately 150,000 new cases of colon cancer occur annually in the United States. Of those cases, approximately 53,000 Americans die, accounting for 5% of all cancer deaths. Fortunately, these rates have been declining since the late 1980s. This improvement can be attributed in part to the detection and removal of colon polyps through routine colonoscopies, as most colon cancers grow from polyps.

When should I get a colonoscopy?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American College of Physicians recommend colonoscopies begin at age 50. However, the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommends they begin at age 45 for African Americans, as it occurs at higher rates among this group. Someone with a family history of colon cancer may also have an earlier colonoscopy based on the age of the relative who had colon cancer. While colonoscopies are recommended every 10 years, the frequency of subsequent colonoscopies depends on your results..

How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?

To clean your colon in preparation for a colonoscopy, your doctor will prescribe polyethylene glycol, ensuring all digested food is cleared from your body. They’ll also provide you with more specific instructions on how much to drink and when to drink it prior to your colonoscopy.

Colonoscopies are nothing to be afraid of and are something we all need to do to maintain our overall health. Make sure to schedule yours today if you are over 50 or if it’s been 10 years since your last one.

Tarik Firozi, MD, is a gastroenterologist on staff at Progress West Hospital. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Firozi, call 636.928.WELL.