The Life-Saving Importance of Colonoscopies
posted on Friday, March 21, 2025
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on one of the most preventable yet deadly cancers. Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States, with over 150,000 new cases each year. Early detection is key, and colonoscopies play a crucial role in catching cancer before it spreads. At Spencer Hospital, we want to share why colonoscopies are vital and what you need to know about the procedure.
When Should You Get a Colonoscopy?
The current guidelines recommend that people start getting screened for colorectal cancer at age 45. However, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors, you may need to start earlier. The good news is that most insurance plans cover the procedure, making it accessible for many people.
What Happens During a Colonoscopy?
Many people feel nervous about the procedure, but we assure you that it’s a simple, minimally invasive process:
- The day before – Patients follow a clear liquid diet and take prescribed laxatives to cleanse the colon.
- The day of the procedure – Sedation is provided to ensure comfort.
- The procedure itself – A long, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the colon. If any suspicious polyps are found, they are removed immediately.
- Duration – The procedure takes about 30 minutes, followed by a short recovery period before heading home. Since sedation is used, a friend or family member will need to drive you home.
Recovery and Results
Most people feel back to normal by the next day, with only mild bloating or cramping in some cases. Normal activities and diets can typically be resumed within 24 hours.
Preliminary results are often available right after the procedure. If a biopsy is taken, it may take a few days for final results. If everything looks normal, another colonoscopy may not be needed for 10 years, unless other risk factors exist.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Put It Off!
Colonoscopies save lives by detecting cancer early when it’s most treatable. If you’re 45 or older, or have a family history, talk to your doctor about scheduling one. The Northwest Iowa Surgeons team performs hundreds of colonoscopies each year at Spencer Hospital’s state-of-the-art Surgery Center, ensuring high-quality care close to home.
Don’t delay—early detection can make all the difference!
- colon