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Men require follow-ups after colonoscopy
Posted on Apr 18th 2007 6:00AM by Bethany SandersKatie Couric may not have made colonoscopies fashionable, exactly, but her work in the area did spur an increase in the preventative test. A colonoscopy is important not just for its diagnostic value, but when your doctor removes a potentially precancerous polyp, he or she is actually lowering your risk for colon cancer. That's why the test is so important.
A new study shows that certain groups of people are more likely to have a recurrence of polyps than others. Men are more likely than women, and those over 65 are more likely than younger people. Obesity is another risk factor, and those who have multiple polyps removed are also likely to develop them again. Current guidelines have the average person (those without symptoms or risk factors) having a repeat colonoscopy every 5 to 10 years, but this study may soon change those recommendations. Instead, these at-risk groups may find themselves going in every three years for the test.
Few preventative tests are pleasant, and I'll agree that this one is likely no walk in the park, but when it comes to preventing colon cancer, it's the best tool in your doctor's toolbox. So if you need one, get out there and get it over with. You'll be glad you did.
A new study shows that certain groups of people are more likely to have a recurrence of polyps than others. Men are more likely than women, and those over 65 are more likely than younger people. Obesity is another risk factor, and those who have multiple polyps removed are also likely to develop them again. Current guidelines have the average person (those without symptoms or risk factors) having a repeat colonoscopy every 5 to 10 years, but this study may soon change those recommendations. Instead, these at-risk groups may find themselves going in every three years for the test.
Few preventative tests are pleasant, and I'll agree that this one is likely no walk in the park, but when it comes to preventing colon cancer, it's the best tool in your doctor's toolbox. So if you need one, get out there and get it over with. You'll be glad you did.
