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If you’re 50 to 75, you’re at risk for colon cancer. Even if you don’t have symptoms, family history or a bowel disease such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, you are still at risk.
Still, many people are reluctant to have a colonoscopy – the only way to find out if you have colon cancer.
“I have heard nearly every excuse for not getting one,” said Jason Perey, MD, of Shiland Family Medicine-Fort Mill, part of Carolinas HealthCare System. “But, the fact is, colonoscopies are very effective at detecting colon cancer.”
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable kinds of cancer. “I usually ask my reluctant patients if they’d rather be uncomfortable for a couple of hours or have cancer that may go undetected until it’s too late,” Dr. Perey said.
Prep for the procedure, and the procedure itself, have gotten better over time. Take a look at the improvements!
- No more icky, chalky drink beforehand.
Today, you can choose smaller doses of the prep mixture and combine it with flavors such as lemonade or lime. - You may be able to divide the prep drink.
Some gastroenterologists (the doctors who perform colonoscopies) may have you do a “split dose,” where you take half the prep the night before and the other half on the morning of the procedure. - The colonoscopy is over faster than you might imagine.
Ask anyone who has had a recent colonoscopy and they’ll tell you the prep is the worst part because they don’t remember the procedure itself! With advanced technology and extra privacy, today’s colonoscopies are quick and easy. Most patients end up sleeping through the entire process.
Because the procedure is quick, you won’t have to miss a lot of work. Doctors recommend you take off the day of the procedure since you may be a little groggy afterward. Carolinas HealthCare System now offers Saturday appointments, as well.
Partner With a Doctor for Good Health
The primary care doctors at Carolinas HealthCare System can help you fight disease and stay healthy.
Call 844-881-2180 or complete an online request form to find a doctor near you.