It seems like as soon as the calendar rolls into the new year, people begin talking about their New Year’s resolutions. They frequently involve something to do with health and wellness, like going to the gym more often, fitting into those jeans you haven’t worn in the last year, or vowing to spend more time outside and less time in front of the TV. If you’re one to make New Year’s resolutions, and are at least 50 years of age, think outside of the box this year and resolve to take care of your GI health, most notably to prioritize a colonoscopy.

Why Are Colonoscopies Necessary?

Colonoscopies are the best tool that we have to detect colon cancer. Since colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in both men and women, catching it early while it’s still treatable is crucial. The exam is a simple one, typically completed in an hour or less, with patients being able to return home in just a few hours. During the exam, a long, flexible tube is inserted into the rectum. It travels through to the large intestine, enabling the doctor to look for any abnormalities throughout the digestive tract. If there is anything suspicious, a biopsy can be done to check for abnormalities, cancer, or pre-cancer.

Who Needs To Get A Colonoscopy?

Low risk patients are advised to begin getting regular colonoscopies at age 50. If that exam is normal, most patients don’t need another exam for ten years, although individual recommendations may vary patient to patient depending on individual circumstances. There are certain risk factors that might put you at a higher risk to develop colon cancer. These risk factors include having a personal or family history of inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, have a family history of colorectal cancer, or if you are overweight. Additionally, it’s been shown that African Americans have a higher incidence of advanced stage colon cancer at a younger age, meaning that doctors may recommend exams earlier for certain ethnic groups. You should discuss these risk factors with your doctor to determine if you should begin your regular exams before turning 50.

When Should I Schedule My Exam?

If you have any questions or concerns about your GI health, book an appointment at Needham Gastroenterology today so we can discuss them with you. Since many symptoms of colon cancer mimic those of other less harmful gastrointestinal issues, it can be hard to pinpoint the disease in some people and is often discovered once it has reached a more advanced stage. These symptoms include a change in bowel habits lasting more than a few days, rectal bleeding, abdominal cramping, weakness and fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. While these symptoms don’t always point to colon cancer, they should be addressed with your doctor, as they might indicate a problem in your digestive tract that needs to be addressed.

So this year, as you think about best goals for your health, think outside diet and exercise and vow to make sure you’re taking care of all aspects of your health and your body. If you have any questions about colorectal cancer, colonoscopies, or other aspects of your digestive health, it’s time to visit Needham Gastroenterology for a discussion with one of our doctors.