You might be one of the many people questioning the importance of a colonoscopy. Here's something that might change your mind: Colorectal cancer is the third most leading cause of cancer in men and women, according to the CDC. A colonoscopy is the only colorectal cancer screening that can actually prevent cancer while screening for it. If you are over 50 it is crucial to get a colonoscopy because you are more likely to develop polyps past that age. To schedule a colonoscopy in Brandon, FL call Dr. Joel Biggers and Dr. Elizabeth Biggers at Biggers Family Medicine.
How does a Colonoscopy Prevent Cancer?
A colonoscopy can actually prevent colorectal cancer because your doctor can remove the precancerous symptoms during the procedure. Colon cancer is preventable because it develops from polyps inside your colon or rectum. By removing these polyps during a colonoscopy you decrease the risk of colon cancer significantly.
There are other tests that screen for colon cancer, such as stool and DNA tests. However, those screenings can produce false positives and your doctor will recommend a colonoscopy anyway. It is helpful to get multiple tests, but do not avoid a colonoscopy if you receive another type of test. A colonoscopy is the only colorectal cancer screening that can remove potential cancer from your body. Consider scheduling your next colonoscopy appointment with Biggers Family Medicine in Brandon, FL.
When Should You Get a Colonoscopy?
The American Cancer Society recommends people should start screening for colorectal cancer at 50 years old. Others who are high risk may need to be screen younger and more frequently. Be sure to follow the recommendation of Dr. Biggers on when to schedule your next test. Irregular screening can increase the chances that the polyps develop into colon cancer before they can be removed.
Modern colonoscopies are safer and more subdued than before. The exam is often done while you are under conscious sedation, which feels like light sleep, but you are awake. The test is less intrusive with the advancements made to endoscopy technology, and the preparation is less burdensome, too. Nothing compares, however, to the security you get when getting a colonoscopy. It is estimated that 1 in 18 people will develop colon cancer in their lifetime. Wouldn't you want to be safe from this unfortunately common cancer?
Call Dr. Joel and Elizabeth Biggers at (813) 655-4646 to schedule your colonoscopy in Brandon, Florida. Biggers Family Medicine will always be dedicated to your health. You should be too, by getting a colonoscopy.