How Often Is a Colon Cancer Screening Needed?

Dr. Kevin Marks of Premier Gastroenterology in Katy, TX, is available for all your colon cancer screening needs.

Polyps can develop in any of the four layers of the colon.

While you are in twilight sleep, the doctor inserts a flexible tube with a micro-camera through the anus and rectum, allowing the doctor to see if polyps, blood, or abnormal cells are present. 

The doctor painlessly removes these possible pre-cancerous areas during the colonoscopy.

How Often Should You Get Colon Cancer Testing?

Never put off having your colonoscopy, as this test gives your doctor a better chance of ridding your body of colon cancer. 

According to the CDC, this type of cancer has a high rate of successful elimination when caught early.

The CDC recommends the following colon cancer screening schedule. 

• Colonoscopy every ten years starting at age 45

If you have a history of colon cancer or a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease in your family, colon screenings are recommended more frequently and earlier than age 45.

• After 60, your doctor may recommend colon cancer testing every five years if you have a higher risk for cancer.
• After 75 or 80, the doctor may recommend you no longer get a colonoscopy.  

Doctors generally follow the recommendations of the CDC. However, most doctors have testing preferences for each patient, depending on the family history and current medical status.

Peace of Mind Through Colon Testing

Colon cancer prognosis is generally excellent if your doctor discovers you have colon cancer and can treat it early. These doctors are eager to send you away with a clean bill of health, free of colon cancer. 

Dr. Kevin Marks of Premier Gastroenterology in Katy, TX provides colon cancer screenings. 

Call for an appointment today at (281) 392-0425.