Experts debunk 7 colonoscopy myths
One in 23 people will get colon cancer in their lifetime and getting a colonoscopy is key in preventing it. Several experts debunked common myths about colonoscopies, a treatment that can help prevent colon cancer and deaths from this common condition. The best way to know if a colonoscopy is right for you is to talk to your doctor.
Here are some of the most common myths — and truths — about colonoscopies as explained by Dr. Faris M. Murad, Dr. Kevin Liebovich and Dr. Jennifer Spanier-Stiasny, gastroenterology experts at Advocate Health Care.
Myth: I don’t want a colonoscopy because I have heard it is painful.
Truth: Patients undergoing colonoscopy are sedated and should feel no pain during the procedure. It is common to feel bloated and gassy after the exam.
Myth: I don’t want a colonoscopy because of the cost.
Truth: The Affordable Care Act mandates that all screening colonoscopies are fully covered by insurance beginning at age 50 for everyone with average risk. If you have a family history of colon or rectal cancer, talk to your doctor about whether you might benefit from earlier or more frequent screenings.
Myth: I don’t want a colonoscopy because I am afraid of the results.
Truth: The purpose of colonoscopy is to prevent colon cancer by removing asymptomatic precancerous polyps. As long as patients have no symptoms, this is a preventative exam and patients should not fear the results.
Myth: I don’t want a colonoscopy because I hear stool tests are easier.
Truth: Stool tests are only partially effective at screening for colon cancer and if abnormal, would results in a diagnostic colonoscopy. Colonoscopy is not only more accurate than stool tests, but is also the only way of preventing colon cancer
Myth: White men are most at-risk for colon cancer, so I don’t need to get one.
Truth: Wrong. Women get colon cancer almost as much as men and black Americans actually have a higher rate of colon cancer. Colon cancer is the 2nd deadliest cancer in the U.S., it is more than 90% preventable. Getting screened is your best chance to catch it early.
Myth: I don’t want a colonoscopy because the prep drink is unpleasant to drink.
Truth: The good news is that we have prep drinks that are lower in volume and more palatable.
Myth: I don’t want a colonoscopy because it is humiliating.
Truth: Thinking about colonoscopy might be unpleasant, but you can expect a private and respectful experience. Your care team will make you as comfortable as possible. As for the exam itself, it’s often done during so-called “twilight sleep,” or conscious sedation. With twilight sleep, 99% of patients are comfortable during the exam. Most people find that is much more pleasant than ever expected. Many people don’t even remember it all afterwards.
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health enews staff is a group of experienced writers from our Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care sites, which also includes freelance or intern writers.
Had a colonoscopy 3 weeks ago, the prep hasn’t changed in Green Bay for 20 years.
Mine turned out fabulously but I have talked to others who won’t do it again.
I wanted to be cautious at my age, being a 29 year breast cancer and 4 year heart survivor so I asked about having a colonoscopy. My doctor sent me to a doctor who ordered the colonoscopy. I called my insurance and was told that the screening colonoscopy was covered by my insurance. During the procedure the doctor took polyps for testing. They come back negative but since he did this, the procedure was NOT covered as screening and cost me for the hospital, doctor and anesthesiologist! And now I am told that ALL my future colonoscopies will be considered diagnostic and not screening and I can’t afford them. Why can’t they be like mammograms and covered the same? You are told to be proactive with your health but them are charged.
I have had several colonoscopy. I am put to sleep. Never had an issue. My doctor and his staff take the time to put me at ease.
My sister died of colon cancer. It wouldn’t matter how bad the prep or procedure was, it is better than the alternative. Luckily the preps have changed over the years, I fall asleep as soon as they start, and I have the most wonderful naps the afternoon after the procedure. Don’t put it off!
What is the length of time for an average colonoscopy?
My colonoscopy took about 20-30 minutes once started.
There is an ongoing health equity problem in this country. 50 years old is too late to screen for colon cancer! There must be a change!! Now!
My grandmother had colon cancer. She ended up having her colon removed. As for me, I’ve had two colonoscopies to date. I just went to sleep, done. No problem.
IMHO, the worst part is the prep the night before. My advice is to find a magazine, sit on the toilet and just let it happen in its own time.
Can a person be hurt during a colonoscopy? Can the camera or tube puncture the colon? Has this ever happen?
My brother in law had a colonoscopy and 2 days later was in so much pain went to the er and he had a bowel blockage! Is that common after a colonoscopy?
I just want to point out the obvious, this man was 43 years old. Insurance does not cover a colonoscopy until age 50. More and more people are getting diagnosed with colon cancer at a younger age than 50. They are having symptoms and recommended for a colonoscopy. I believe the age needs to be 40 not 50.