The Colonoscopy Age

Dan Frith

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This blog should be more accurately entitled, "The Age for Colonoscopy." A colonoscopy isan outpatient procedure during which your large bowel (colon and rectum) is examined from the inside. Colonoscopies are usually used to evaluate symptoms like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits. They are also used to screen for colorectal cancer.

I am 51 years old and guess what? The American Cancer Society recommends a screening colonoscopy for adults beginning at age 50. I put it off as long as I could...you see I am a big baby about these kind of things. But the day came and went without a hitch. It really is no big deal...its painless..quick...and you return to normal activities the next day. And, I almost forgot, it might save your life by making an early diagnosis of colorectal cancer which can be effectively treated if caught early enough.

So...if you are my age (or close to it) you are at the "Age for Colonoscopy."