Question:
If I do NOT have an increased risk for colon cancer (like history of colon cancer in my father) and I have a “normal” colonoscopy, (meaning no precancerous polyps found) should I get a repeat colonoscopy any sooner than ten years?
Answer:
No
MedHead Confidence Score: 8
Amount Saved: $3081 average cost of a colonoscopy
MedHead Message:
Colonoscopies are aggressively over-prescribed. If you had a “clean” colonoscopy or non-adenomatous polyps, you don’t need another colonoscopy for ten years, of course, you have a higher risk, such as ulcerative colitis, family history of colon cancer in a parent or sibling, or unexplained abdominal pain and weight loss. Save the money and re-do your bathroom shower, so you don’t have to keep staring at the same mildew spots every morning while getting ready for work!
References:
1. http://www.choosingwisely.org/clinician-lists/american-college-surgeons-colorectal-cancer-screening-every-ten-years/ 2. https://health.costhelper.com/colonoscopy.html
