Almost everyone has heard stories about colonoscopy prep. Drinking the solution, changing your diet, and spending the day in the bathroom aren’t exactly something people look forward to. If you’re approaching age 45 or your doctor has recommended a colonoscopy, you may be wondering if this is something you’ll have to do every year.
How often do you need a colonoscopy? The answer depends on your age, your risk factors, and the results of your exam. While some people need more frequent screenings, many people with normal findings won’t need another colonoscopy for 10 years.
For adults at average risk of colorectal cancer, screening usually begins at age 45. However, some people need to start earlier. This includes people with:
While stool-based screening tests are also available, colonoscopy remains the gold standard. It allows your doctor to examine your entire colon and remove polyps during the same procedure. If a stool test finds something abnormal, you’ll still need a colonoscopy to find the cause.
If your colonoscopy is normal, that’s good news. Research shows your risk of colorectal cancer usually stays low for many years after a normal exam.
For most people at average risk with no polyps or other concerning findings, the next colonoscopy is recommended in 10 years.
This long screening interval is one reason colonoscopy is such an effective screening test. During the procedure, your doctor can find and remove many polyps before they become cancerous. If your results are normal and you don’t develop new symptoms, you can usually wait 10 years before your next screening.
Polyps are growths that develop on the lining of the colon. While many are harmless, some can become cancer over time.
If polyps are found, you may need another colonoscopy sooner than 10 years. Your doctor will consider:
Your gastroenterologist will recommend the right screening schedule based on your results and medical history.
Screening isn’t the only reason someone may need a colonoscopy. Your doctor may recommend one if you develop symptoms such as:
If you’re having symptoms, don’t wait until your next routine screening. Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy sooner to find the cause.
For many adults, routine colorectal cancer screening continues through age 75.
Between ages 76 and 85, the decision becomes more personal. Your doctor will consider factors such as:
If you’ve had regular screenings with normal results, your doctor may decide that you don’t need additional colonoscopies. Talk with your doctor about what’s right for you.
It can be tempting to put off a colonoscopy, especially if you feel healthy. The problem is that colon polyps and early colorectal cancer often don’t cause symptoms.
Waiting too long may give a precancerous polyp time to grow. Following your doctor’s recommended screening schedule gives you the best chance of finding problems early, when they’re often easier to treat.
How often you need a colonoscopy depends on your age, your personal risk for colorectal cancer, your previous colonoscopy results, and whether you develop symptoms. While some people need colonoscopies more often, many people with normal results won’t need another exam for 10 years.
If you’re turning 45 or are due for your next colonoscopy, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio. Our team can review your medical history, recommend the right screening schedule, and perform your colonoscopy to help protect your long-term health.
If you have not registered for the new gPortal please select the Register/Learn More button for instructions on registering.
The Patient Portal messages are only monitored during regular business hours. Please allow 24-72 hours to be contacted by a staff member.
To pay your bill online, please choose the correct option below: select the “Clinic Locations” button if you’re paying your Physician or Clinic Statement, or select the “ASC Locations” button if you’re paying your Procedure Statement at one of our Ambulatory Surgical Centers.
Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio (GCSA) is a Professional Association owned by the physicians that practice within it. GCSA’s physicians are directly involved in the management of patient services. GCSA physicians have indirect ownership interest in our Histology/Pathology, Anesthesia, Infusion and Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASC).
