Think You're Too Young to Need A Colonoscopy? Think Again

"A few years ago at my annual wellness exam, my doctor brought up the word no 40-something wants to hear: colonoscopy.

"I'm not that old," I scoffed.

Turns out, I was.

Medical groups have lowered the recommended starting age for colorectal cancer screenings to 45 from 50, in response to rising colon cancer rates among younger people. But only about 20% of 45- to 49-year-olds are screened for one of the deadliest cancers, according to American Cancer Society data.

"There is still a lack of knowledge about the importance of getting screened, especially within this age group," says Cassandra Fritz, a gastroenterologist and assistant professor at Washington University in St. Louis.

A colonoscopy is a time-consuming and rather unpleasant experience. To empty out your colon the day before the procedure, you avoid solid food and drink clear liquids for a certain amount of time, and take a laxative.

The procedure typically involves anesthesia or sedation, with a scope inserted into your rectum so a doctor can look inside your colon. Polyps can be removed with the scope, and tissue samples can be taken for a biopsy.

In 2018, the American Cancer Society lowered the recommended starting age for colon cancer screenings to 45 from 50. In 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a panel whose recommendations are followed by insurers and federal healthcare programs, followed suit, so colonoscopies for people 45 and older are typically covered by health insurance.” [1]

1. Your Health: Think You're Too Young to Need A Colonoscopy? Think Again
Reddy, Sumathi.  Wall Street Journal, Eastern edition; New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]. 06 Apr 2023: A.12.