Is It Time for Your Colonoscopy Screening?
A colonoscopy is the best screening test available for colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States. Most common in people over the age of 50.
Why Is Screening for Colorectal Cancer So Important?
Many colorectal cancers can be prevented through regular screening. Screening is important because Precancerous Polyps, when found early, can be removed before they turn into cancer.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
During a colonoscopy, your doctor examines the lining of your entire colon to check for polyps or tumors. If any polyps are found, they can be removed immediately.
- On the day of the colonoscopy, you will receive medication to help you relax. The patient is asleep and does not remember the test when they wake up.
- Your doctor performs the colonoscopy by inserting a long, thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope into your colon through the rectum. The tube has a tiny video camera and light at the end that sends images to a video monitor.
- Before the procedure, you will receive instructions from your doctor on what to eat and how to empty your bowels.
- It is generally recommended to start having colonoscopies at age 50, regardless of gender.
- People at increased risk of colorectal cancer may start earlier.
What Are Some of the Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer?
- Age. More common in people over the age of 50.
- Personal and family history. People who have a parent, sibling or child with colorectal cancer are at a higher risk.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD, which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are at risk.
- Lifestyle. Being overweight, having an inactive lifestyle are contributors.
Possible Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
- A change in bowel habits
- A feeling of having to have a bowel movement that does not go away even after doing so.
- Rectal bleeding, dark stools, or blood in the stool
- Stomach discomfort,
- weakness or fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Should I get a Colorectal Cancer Screening?
If you are age 50 to 75 years old, you should get screened for colorectal cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening beginning at age 50. Some groups recommend starting earlier, at age 45.
How often you should have a Screening Colonoscopy?
Every 10 years (for people who do not have an increased risk of colorectal cancer).
Medicare covers screening colonoscopies once every 24 months if you are at high risk for colorectal cancer. If you are not at high risk for colorectal cancer, Medicare covers the test once every 120 months (Ten Years).
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires both private insurers and Medicare to cover the costs of colorectal cancer screening tests, because these tests are recommended by the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). The law stipulates that there should be no out-of-pocket costs for patients, such as co-pays or deductibles, for these screening tests. But the definition of a “screening” test can sometimes be confusing. Please don’t hesitate to contact your Provider for more information.