Hello everyone, I am a doctor who has been engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive diseases for many years. Over the course of my career, I have witnessed countless cases where patients have been diagnosed early and successfully treated for potentially serious health problems through regular colonoscopy. Colonoscopy, although it may sound a bit taboo, is indeed a very effective means of preventing colorectal cancer.
Let me share a story that impresses me: a few years ago, there was a 40-year-old patient who had his first colonoscopy at the persuasion of his family because he had a family history of colorectal cancer. During the examination, we found several small polyps, and although they were all benign, this immediately alerted us. Following the guidelines, we recommend that he be checked again after two years. Two years later, we found that a polyp had a tendency to become malignant, but fortunately, thanks to early detection, we were able to perform minimally invasive surgery in time and successfully remove it completely. As a result, the patient was able to avoid possible cancer development and is still living a healthy life.
At what age is the best time to start colonoscopy?
First of all, routine colonoscopy is generally recommended from the age of 45. This age point is based on data and research showing that the risk of most colorectal cancers begins to increase significantly. Of course, this is advice for the average adult who does not have obvious risk factors.
However, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, especially if a first-degree relative (e.g., parent, sibling) was diagnosed with cancer before the age of 50, then you should start getting tested earlier. In this case, colonoscopy is recommended starting from the age at which the family member was diagnosed with cancer minus 10 years of age, or from 40 years of age, whichever is earlier. For example, if your father was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at the age of 45, then you should start having a colonoscopy at the age of 35.
For those with hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome), it is recommended to start testing at a younger age. Typically, it is more appropriate for such patients to be examined starting at 20 years of age or age of onset minus 10 to 15 years.
These recommendations are based on extensive epidemiological studies and statistics aimed at early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer. Remember, early detection is one of the most effective ways to prevent and treat colorectal cancer. If you're unsure whether you need a colonoscopy, it's best to talk to your family doctor or rectoenterologist, who can provide specific advice based on your individual health condition.
Frequency of colonoscopy: 5 years or 10 years?
First of all, the frequency of colonoscopies depends mainly on a few key factors: the results of the examination, the individual's health history, and whether there are additional risk factors. Usually, if your colonoscopy results show no polyps or cancer, and you don't have a family history of genetic conditions or other high-risk factors, your doctor will usually recommend testing every 10 years.
However, it's not always that simple. If the test results show that there are polyps, the timing of the re-examination depends on the type, number and size of the polyps. For example, if small, benign polyps are found, your doctor may recommend another test after 5 years. However, if the polyp is large or shows signs of potential malignancy, your doctor may recommend more frequent monitoring, such as every 3 years or even less.
For those with a family history of colorectal cancer, or other conditions that increase the risk of cancer, such as inflammatory bowel disease, your doctor may recommend more frequent check-ups, usually every 1 to 2 years. This is because the incidence of colorectal cancer in this population is relatively high, and early detection and intervention are particularly important.
A colonoscopy, while it may sound daunting, is actually a relatively safe procedure that can greatly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. With regular check-ups, even if problems are identified, they can often be intervened at an early stage.
In conclusion, there is no "one-size-fits-all" frequency of checks. Your doctor will work on the most appropriate test plan for your specific situation. Therefore, following professional advice and getting regular check-ups is the best strategy to maintain gut health. Don't forget, prevention is easier and more economical than cure. So, instead of waiting until the problem arises, it's better to check it out early.
The process and preparation of colonoscopy
Preparation
Dietary adjustments: Three days before the exam, start adjusting your diet. It is recommended to reduce fiber intake and avoid nuts, seeds, corn, and whole-grain products. The day before the test, you will need to eat an all-liquid diet consisting of broth, fruit juice (no pulp), coffee or tea (no dairy), and of course, avoid drinks that contain red or purple as they can be mistaken for blood stains.
Cleanse your bowels: Usually the night before and the morning of the test, you'll need to take a laxative provided by your doctor. This is the least desirable part of the whole preparation process, as you will need to use the toilet frequently. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend taking laxatives in divided doses to reduce discomfort.
Arrange a partner: Because sedation may be used during the test, it is recommended to arrange for a family member or friend to accompany you home on the day of the test.
Check the process
Arrive at the medical facility: Arrive before the appointment time and complete the necessary registration procedures. This is a good time to reconfirm that you have understood all the preparation steps and followed them correctly.
Use a sedative: Before the test begins, you'll be given a sedative to help you relax. This means that you will feel half-asleep during the exam, but you will not feel any pain.
To do the test: The doctor inserts a soft tube through the anus with a camera on one end. This process usually takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Through the camera, your doctor can examine the lining of your colon in detail, looking for polyps or other abnormalities.
Recovery Period: Once the examination is complete, you will be sent to the recovery area. You may feel a little sleepy due to the use of sedatives. Usually within an hour you will be back and ready to go home.
Go home and rest: On the day of the check-up, it is recommended that you do not do any planned or important activities. When you get home, you can resume your normal diet, but it's best to start with light food.
By preparing for the examination and understanding the examination process, I hope that you will be able to face the colonoscopy with more peace of mind. Remember, this is a crucial step that can help detect the problem early and take therapeutic action. If you have any questions or concerns, you may wish to discuss them in detail with your doctor before the test.