When Should I Schedule My First Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for identifying early stages of colorectal cancer — so early, you may not even notice any symptoms or changes in the way your bowel is working. It’s also an excellent tool for diagnosing other serious issues, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

During a colonoscopy, we remove polyps or other abnormal growths and take small tissue samples for lab analysis. These findings help determine whether you need follow‑up care or additional treatment to protect your colon health.

For many people, though, the question isn’t why a colonoscopy is so important, but rather when they should begin this critical screening. 

In this post, our team at Desert West Surgery reviews current guidelines for colonoscopy screening so you can get the testing you need based on your personal risk profile.

Your personal needs: When to schedule your first colonoscopy

Every year, roughly 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and more than 50,000 people die from the disease. 

Colorectal cancer was once associated primarily with older people; however, today, many younger adults are developing the cancer. The reasons aren’t fully understood, but researchers are studying factors such as diet, lifestyle, and environmental influences.

Our team reviews your health history and other risk factors to determine the best time to schedule your first exam and repeat screenings, based on current guidelines from the American Cancer Society (ACS).

According to those guidelines, people at average risk of developing colorectal cancer should have their first screening by the time they reach their 45th birthday. People at higher risk should potentially begin screening at an earlier age and be screened more frequently.

Understanding your personal risk factors

So what constitutes average risk versus high risk? The ACS says a person is at average risk of colorectal cancer if they DO NOT have these concerns:

• A personal or family history of colorectal cancer
• A personal history of certain types of polyps or IBD (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
• A personal history of radiation treatment to the belly or pelvic area
• A hereditary condition (confirmed or suspected) that increases the risk of colorectal cancer

If you fall into this category, you should be screened every 10 years through age 75. From ages 76-85, you and your doctor can decide if screening is appropriate and recommended based on your prior screening results, your overall health, and even your own personal preferences. 

After age 85, the ACS doesn’t recommend screening, primarily because colorectal cancers typically grow slowly — so slowly that they shouldn’t have an impact on your life expectancy at that point.

Other reasons to have a colonoscopy

As noted, colonoscopies are typically used to look for signs of colorectal cancer or IBD. But they may also be advisable if you have symptoms like:

• Unusual and unexplained changes in your bowel habits
• Unexplained weight loss
• Unexplained belly pain
• Blood in your stool

If you have any of these concerns, schedule a visit to talk to our team, so we can make sure you get the treatment you need as quickly as possible.

Learn more about colonoscopies

A colonoscopy is a proven, effective way to test for colorectal cancer and other bowel concerns. While the test itself may sound daunting, it’s actually quick and painless — even the prep is simpler than you might realize. 

Best of all, regular screening can play a major role in helping prevent life-threatening consequences.

If you need to schedule your first colonoscopy, our team is ready to answer your questions and help you decide when — and how often — you need to be screened. To find out more, call Desert West Surgery today and schedule a visit at our Las Vegas location nearest you.