Colonoscopy: A Life-Saving Test

Colonoscopies are an important part of routine preventative care in the United States. Most doctors recommend getting a colonoscopy roughly once every 10 years, beginning at age 50. Individuals who have a higher risk of colorectal cancer, or who have gastrointestinal symptoms, may need to be tested at a younger age, or more often. Although preparing for a colonoscopy and the procedure itself are generally seen as an inconvenience, screening for colorectal cancers has saved countless lives and prevented the progression of serious disease.

Colon Cancer: A slow but silent killer

The American Cancer Society estimates that roughly 1 in 21 men and 1 in 23 women in America will develop colorectal cancer, making it the second-most common cause of cancer-related death. Sadly, nearly 50,000 Americans die of colorectal cancer each year in the United States. The good news, however, is that death rates have been steadily falling thanks to preventative screening, early detection, and improved treatment. Colorectal cancers are difficult to prevent and detect in a timely manner without professional screening, because they usually cause very few symptoms early on.

Colonoscopy: How it saves lives

Colorectal tumors and polyps can take a long time to grow and spread. A polyp can take up to 15 years to turn into cancer. Small polyps found during a colonoscopy can be removed during the screening, before they have a chance to become cancerous. Even if early cancer is found during a colonoscopy, treatment and 5-year survival rates are up to 90%. However, once colon cancer spreads, it becomes very difficult to treat.

The Test: How it works

A colonoscopy is done by a doctor, usually a gastroenterologist, in a private room of a hospital or medical clinic. The test itself usually takes less than an hour. Medication is usually given to ease discomfort. The day before the test, the colon is prepped at home with special instructions for diet, liquid, and medication. This is important for the clearest view of the colon during the test and for the most accurate results.

A flexible tube is placed in the colon and air is blown into it to keep it open. Your doctor will study images from the inside of the colon and look for any areas of concern. To read further details about the test itself, visit the National Institutes of Health’s colonoscopy page.

A colonoscopy is an easy way to take proactive control of your health. Schedule your test with Dr. Justin McCarthy’s office at (806) 761-0722. Dr. McCarthy has been practicing gastroenterology and hepatology in Lubbock, Texas, since 1992. Visit his website, blog, or Facebook page to learn more about his practice, as well as more useful information about gastrointestinal health!