FAQs

What is a screening colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy is the best test currently available to detect colorectal cancer. An endoscope (slim flexible tube with a camera at the tip) is passed through the colon while the physician carefully looks for precancerous lesions or polyps. The test usually takes 15 to 20 minutes on average.

Who should get a colonoscopy?

Individuals 50 years or older and anyone with a family history or those experiencing unexplained constipation, diarrhea, weight loss, or blood in their stool or toilet tissue should speak to their physician.

What is the colonic preparation like?

You prep the day before by drinking a bowel cleanser and following a special diet. Different colonic preparations are commercially available and are more palatable and demand less liquid intake than in the past.

Is a colonoscopy painful?

No! Prior to the colonoscopy a sedative is administered under the supervision of an anesthesiologist. Patients usually wake up shortly after the colonoscopy with little to no discomfort.

Is there anything you can do to guarantee never getting colon cancer?

No. There are no special foods, herbs or bowel cleansers that will prevent colon cancer. Undergoing timely colorectal cancer screenings is the best thing you can do to prevent the development of colon cancer.