They might not be fun, but colonoscopies are low-risk, high-reward procedures
Chronic inflammation from flare-ups can damage the lining of your intestinal wall, making your colon more vulnerable to cancer
Colonoscopies and sigmoidoscopies are types of endoscopies, procedures that look at the health of your large intestine
A steady increase in cases in those younger than 50 started decades ago
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
If you’re at average risk, it’s recommended that you get your first colonoscopy at age 45
It’s a slow-moving process that offers an opportunity for early detection and treatment
At-home screening options can be good detection tools, but a colonoscopy remains the gold standard
Medications, tubing and stress can steal away the ZZZs you need
Knowing your family history and getting a genetic test can help detect colorectal cancer earlier
It can be hard to get used to the bags, but the freedom they provide is worth the challenge