Stop delaying your colonoscopy

Scheduling a colonoscopy may make you uncomfortable, and maybe even a little worried - especially if you have never had one before. But a colonoscopy is a relatively simple procedure that may help save your life by identifying the early signs of colorectal cancer.

Why screening is important

It’s a good reminder that the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends adults age 50 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. - and early in the disease, there are often no symptoms.

“Too often, when people begin experiencing symptoms of colorectal cancer, the disease has advanced to a point where it’s much more difficult to treat,” said Dr. Philip Painter, chief medical officer, UnitedHealthcare Medicare and Retirement. “That’s why it’s so important to get screened at age 50 if you have no risk factors - and earlier, if you do.”

People who are longtime smokers, overweight, physically inactive and those with a family history of colorectal cancer in a parent, sibling or child are at an increased risk.

Nearly 148,000 new cases of colorectal cancer were expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2020. About 80,000 of those cases were estimated to be among adults 65 and older. And yet only 61% of Americans age 50 and older have had a colonoscopy.

You may find that the preparation for a colonoscopy is not as unpleasant as you have heard. In recent years, colon-cleansing solutions have become better tasting, and lower amounts of the laxative solution are sometimes used.

The procedure itself is not lengthy - typically, about 30 to 60 minutes. Sedation is usually recommended, and you may feel slight cramping during the exam, but many may feel nothing at all.

If your results are negative, doctors typically recommend another colonoscopy in 10 years.

Still have questions or concerns? Talk to your health care team. They are there to help.