As a physician, I talk often with patients who are nervous about colonoscopies. That’s understandable, but I encourage you to not make excuses for putting off this important procedure. It could potentially save your life.
Colonoscopies are used to detect colorectal cancer, which, according to the latest data, is the most common cancer in men and the second most diagnosed, behind breast cancer, in women. Most colon cancers will form in the left side of the colon and symptoms include blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits, or change in stool. Cancer that forms on the right side of the colon is often asymptomatic, meaning there are no symptoms, and it can grow for a long time and spread. If you receive regular colonoscopies, cancer could be identified, and polyps can be removed.
Prevention
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends all individuals get their first colonoscopy at the age of 45. Across the country, we began to see an increase of cases in younger individuals, so through evidence-based research and processes, the NCCN lowered the age to identify cases as soon as possible. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, please talk with your physician to determine when you should receive your first colonoscopy.
Colonoscopies are vital because while polyps are very common, and the majority are benign, they could develop into cancer over time. On average, it takes a polyp approximately 10 years to become cancer. In most cases, if a mass is found while performing a colonoscopy, it can be removed at that time. And for most patients who have a “normal” test, they won’t need another colonoscopy for 10 years.
Preparation
I’m happy to share that colonoscopy prep is different than it was 10 years ago. The new prep medicine is well-tolerated by most individuals, and you have additional beverage options to make the process much easier. When preparing, consider the following:
- The prep medicine can be mixed with almost any liquid, so pick your favorite. Think about a drink you enjoy but don’t often drink, such as a cola product.
- Mix the prep medicine with your favorite drink and then put it in the freezer to make it a slushy.
- Mix the prep medicine with a sports drink, which can help to replace the electrolytes you will lose.
Procedure
Colonoscopy is not a large or invasive procedure. Still, some patients have been concerned about the procedure, specifically about having a camera in their colon. In reality, the scope used is small, and patients are asleep for the 30-to-45-minute procedure.
In addition, patients have shared they are anxious to be asleep during the procedure because they don't like the lack of control or are afraid they will say something embarrassing. To calm these fears, it is our policy to have a "timeout" prior to the start of any procedure. During this "timeout," all providers and the patient participate and discuss what procedure is taking place so everyone is on the same page. Our anesthesiology partners also ensure you are fully asleep for the duration of the procedure.
No more excuses – schedule today!
Treatment of colon cancer has evolved, leading to better and more successful patient outcomes. For patients with colon cancer, the current recommendations include surgery as a first step, followed by chemotherapy treatments. If the cancer metastasizes (spreads), we can also treat the metastases, which can often be removed, treated, and, in some cases, cured to help extend and enhance a patient’s life.
Remember, colonoscopies are life-saving tests that allow us to prevent or identify cancerous tumors as early as possible.