Why Is the End of the Year an Ideal Time for a Colonoscopy?

The majority of individuals wince at the notion of getting a colonoscopy. Yet did you know that as soon as you have an initial test, if it is normal, you shouldn't need to undergo the screening for another ten years? That’s a complete decade without a colonoscopy!

Undergoing a colonoscopy exam may not be high on your to-dos list. Still, having this screening can bring peace of mind for your comprehensive wellness. Per cancer.org, colon cancer deaths have decreased for several decades due to routine testing.

Experts recommend that adults of average risk have their first colon cancer screening around age 45. This is suggested because colon and rectal cancer is very treatable when caught early on. If detected early, the five-year survivability rate is 90%.

At Colorado Gastroenterology, our team is dedicated to providing outstanding, personalized care for every individual. Our Denver, CO gastrointestinal (GI) physicians want to make sure you get the colon cancer screening you need to remain well.

How are colonoscopies performed?

A colonoscopy is an examination that finds variations and abnormalities in the rectum and large intestine (colon). During the test, the GI physician places an adjustable scope into the colon via the rectum. A small video camera helps the doctor to view inside the colon.

Your comfort is of extreme importance while you undergo the examination. You'll be given the option to receive intravenous sedation to help you feel more at ease. Speak with our doctors for further information on how they can help make certain your colonoscopy is practically painless.

What does a colonoscopy detect?

Having an initial colorectal cancer screening is advised for people between 45 and 52 years of age. If you have questions about how regularly you should undergo a colonoscopy screening, please talk to one of our board-certified gastroenterologists in Denver, CO.

A colonoscopy at Colorado Gastroenterology helps identify precancerous polyps (growths) or tissue abnormalities that may be present in the rectum or colon. Before you undergo a colonoscopy, it's helpful to recognize what comprises an average risk for colorectal cancer. An average risk means that you're a candidate for an initial colonoscopy exam.

Patients are at an average colon cancer risk if they don’t have:

• Prior radiation to the pelvic area or abdomen for previous cancer treatment

• Family history of colon cancer

• Suspected Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer or HNPCC)

• Hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)

• Prior colon and rectal cancer or polyps

• Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease

Why the year's end is a great time to undergo a colon and rectal screening

The time for new year's resolutions is nearly upon us. The end of the year is a great time to set up an appointment with a Denver, CO colonoscopy specialist near you. Staying proactive permits you to gain perspective and enjoy the holidays with your family members while knowing your health is getting the attention it deserves.

Having a colonoscopy screening lets you begin the new year with a fresh perspective. In addition, gaining insight into your health is a great way to keep your overall goals aligned. It's important to know that reducing the risk of colon and rectal cancer starts with you.

Book your colorectal cancer screening in Denver, CO today

Our staff wants to help ensure you spend a healthy, long life with your family. A colon and rectal cancer screening at Colorado Gastroenterology is an exceptional way to kick off the new year with peace of mind. Not putting off an exam helps provide a warranty against colon cancer. To learn more or to schedule your exam, please reach out to our colonoscopy doctors in Denver, CO today.