45 Is the New 50: Updates to Colonoscopy Guidelines
3/1/2023
Regardless of whether you’ve had a screening or not, many individuals know that 50 is the age to begin colonoscopy exams. Most doctors suggest that individuals undergo their initial colonoscopy exam when they turn 50 and every ten years thereafter. New studies indicate, however, that you should plan to have your initial colonoscopy screening even earlier.
You may be wondering, when should you begin scheduling colonoscopies, and why has this changed? Gastroenterology Associates is here to answer any questions you may have. Our team of gastrointestinal specialists in Baton Rouge, LA can provide detailed information on what to anticipate when having a colonoscopy, when you should undergo this screening, and far more.
Begin screening earlier?
For years, we’ve heard that 50 is the age we should begin screening for colon cancer. However, recent research studies reveal that we should probably start screening for the disease even before then – upon turning 45. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) are advising this. A number of insurance companies, including Medicare, have adjusted their plans to start covering colonoscopies at this age.
Much of what has spurred this change results from a rise in colorectal cancer cases among younger patients. Between 2008 and 2017, the death rate in people aged 55 and younger rose by 1%. Such a rise is a bit surprising since the all-around colorectal cancer rates in fact dropped within that particular period of time.
In accordance with these recent revelations, our Gastroenterology Associates colonoscopy doctors recommend getting a colon cancer screening with our Baton Rouge, LA gastroenterology team as soon as you turn 45.
Why are colonoscopy exams important?
You are probably aware that having colorectal cancer screenings is imperative as we age. This is because colon and rectal cancer can be caught very early and often prevented with regular tests. Whether someone in your family has had colon cancer, you have had this disease, or you've reached that “magic number,” colonoscopies are an essential component of protecting your overall health.
Taking about 15 – 30 minutes to complete, these screenings enable our doctors to gain a clear, close-up view of your large intestine (colon). When providing this screening, our specialists can look for areas of concern and remove any colon polyps, which can be forwarded to a laboratory for pathology testing. By taking out colon polyps, our objective is to catch colon and rectal cancer at a very early stage, if not prevent from developing altogether.
Who is at risk for colon and rectal cancer?
So now you know the age to begin having screenings for colon cancer, but what are the risks? Some of the more common risk factors for colon cancer development include:
- Use of tobacco products
- Poor nutrition, or a diet high in fat and low in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
- Previous radiation treatments to the abdomen or pelvis
- An inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- Family history
- Insufficient amounts of exercise
In the event you carry any of the factors mentioned above, we encourage that you reach out to a Gastroenterology Associates location near you as early as you can to learn if you should schedule a colonoscopy screening.
Get your colonoscopy screening in Baton Rouge, LA
We recognize that the idea of a colonoscopy exam might seem unappealing; however, this fast, common, essential evaluation could possibly save your life. Whether you’re 45 or older, we encourage you to get in touch with Gastroenterology Associates to schedule a colonoscopy consultation. At our leading gastroenterology centers in the Baton Rouge, LA area, we aim to make these tests as fast and comfortable as possible. Should you need help determining if your insurance plan covers colonoscopies, our office staff will be happy to assist.