My friends are all having a Colonoscopy, should I have this test?

Colon cancer is the number two cancer in the United States affecting men and women equally. While certain groups of patients with colitis, familial polyposis or a family history of breast or colon cancer are at highest risk, anyone can develop this cancer. Fortunately there is a test that can detect precancerous lesions or early cancers and that is a colonoscopy.

At the time of the procedure these growths can be removed leading not only to a diagnosis, but also a cure. Current guidelines call for all patients to have a colonoscopy at age 50 with repeat exams in five to ten year intervals. Those at highest risk should consider starting their screening at age 40.

Edward Piken, M.D.
Diplomate, American Board of Gastroenterology
Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group, Inc.
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