Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Fortunately, cancer screening with a colonoscopy beginning at age 45 can help detect the disease early while it is still highly treatable. Have you gotten your colonoscopy? In this blog, we will dispel some myths about the procedure to help you gain the confidence you need to get screened.
Myth #1: “A Colonoscopy Is Painful.”
A colonoscopy procedure is done under sedation, and most patients report only minimal discomfort—if any at all. In fact, the majority of patients fall asleep during the procedure. They may remember little to nothing of their tests when they awaken in the recovery room.
Myth #2: “I Do Not Need a Colonoscopy if I Do Not Have Colon Cancer Symptoms.”
While colon cancer may present with symptoms such as blood in stool or changes in bowel habits, these symptoms usually do not appear until later stages of the disease when treatment options are limited.
All colon cancer grows from small, benign growths called adenomas. The risk for having these polyps increases with age. So, the older you are, the more likely you are to have polyps which should be removed by a gastrointestinal specialist during colonoscopy.
Additionally, colon cancer is very stealthy. That is, this deadly disease almost always is asymptomatic in its earliest stages—even until it is fairly advanced. Detecting polyps and removing them beginning at mid-life is the best way to avoid the occurrence of colon cancer.
Myth #3: “I Am Too Young for a Colonoscopy.”
The recommended age for a first-time colonoscopy has recently been lowered to 45. People up to age 75 should be routinely screened at intervals recommended by their primary care physicians or gastroenterologists.
After age 75, people should discuss the option of getting a colonoscopy or other colorectal cancer screening tests with their doctors. After age 85, colon cancer screening with colonoscopy is no longer necessary.
Those with a family history of colon cancer—particularly if it occurred at a young age—should have colonoscopies earlier than the general population does. Make sure you are honest about your family history as you talk to your healthcare provider about colon cancer screening and be open to having your first test earlier than the recommended age of 45 if necessary.
Myth #4: “The Preparation Required Before a Colonoscopy Is Too Difficult.”
While you will have to abstain from solid foods the day before your test, you will be able to consume clear liquids (no red or purple dyes) in whatever quantity you like. You will need to take liquid laxatives as well, but today’s amounts are lower and may be split into evening and morning doses for ease of use.
Myth #5: “I Have No Family History of Colon Cancer or Other Risk Factors.”
It is reassuring to know that your family is healthy and that you do not drink excessively, smoke, or have poor dietary habits. While these things definitely can put you at risk for developing colon cancer, many colon cancer patients have no risk factors whatsoever. This is why it is important for everyone over the age of 45 to get regular colonoscopies, regardless of their family history or lifestyle choices.
Myth #6: “Colonoscopies Are Risky.”
When a board-certified gastroenterologist performs your colonoscopy, your risk for complications is very, very low. So, to put your mind at ease, select a GI specialist with extensive experience and a hospital or GI clinic which performs many of these procedures each and every year.
Myth #7: “Colonoscopies Take Too Much Time.”
You will have to begin your bowel preparation the day before your screening colonoscopy. However, the test itself is relatively brief—only 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. Patients go home right away and are able to resume normal activities the very next day. The time investment is minimal, but the benefits are great.
Colonoscopy in Sarasota and Manatee Counties
At Intercoastal Medical Group, our team of four board-certified gastroenterologists expertly perform screening and diagnostic colonoscopies. They make sure their patients are fully informed on the why’s and how’s of this colon cancer assessment. Our entire team is devoted to giving people the easiest and most comfortable procedures possible.
Learn more about colonoscopy with an in-person visit to our Cattleridge Medical Building II or Lakewood Ranch II locations. Contact us at (941) 365-1102 or request a visit by filling in our appointment form here.
We will be pleased to talk with you soon!
