Know the Right Time for a Colonoscopy

For a while, the recommended age to begin screening for colon cancer has been 50. However, this is not always a hard and fast rule. There are several different factors that determine a person’s risk for colon cancer and when they should start getting screened.

Colon cancer is one of the most common, and one of the most treatable, cancers. Early detection plays a huge role in how successful treatment can be.  It is important to know your risk level, so that you can begin getting screened at the right time.

A colonoscopy allows doctors to find abnormal growths in the colon and remove them before they become cancerous, or at the early stages of cancer. This prevents cancer from developing and spreading.

People of average risk should have a colon cancer screening if they are 50 or older. However, those with higher risk should have a colonoscopy by the age of 40. Some factors that may increase a person’s risk of colon cancer are

It is important to note that those who have a parent, sibling, or child with colon cancer are at double the risk of the average person developing colon cancer themselves.

Studies show that many people who should be receiving colon cancer screenings are not. This could be because people don’t understand how important colonoscopies are in preventing and detecting cancer. Additionally, many people do not want to do the preparation involved in having a colonoscopy.

However, colonoscopies can be lifesaving. It is important for each person to know their risk level and schedule a colonoscopy at the appropriate time. This will provide peace of mind and ensure that you receive treatment when needed so that cancer does not progress. If you have any questions about your risk level or when you should get a colonoscopy, talk with your doctor here at Crisp Regional Hospital.