We’ve discussed the importance of other regular health checkups, such as eye exams or mammograms and annual well-checks. Today, we’ll discuss another equally important checkup for older adults: coloscopies. We realize it may seem a bit distasteful to discuss this just after Thanksgiving, but is there ever really a good time to discuss them? Plus, it’ll be easier to discuss it in one cohesive blog post and put it behind us once and for all…pun slightly intended.
Colonoscopies are essential for seniors due to their role in the early detection of colorectal cancer, whose risk increases with age, as well as the possibility of offering curative treatment options. This is especially important because right-sided colon cancers, which tend to present with fewer symptoms, become more common with older age, making the early detection afforded by colonoscopy all the more critical.
In this post, we’ll explore why regular colonoscopies are important for seniors, what the procedure involves, and how it can help you stay ahead of potential health issues.
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure performed by using a long, flexible tube with a camera attached at the end, called a colonoscope, that inspects the interior of the colon and rectum. It allows doctors to find abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, inflammation, or any signs of cancer. Many polyps can be removed in one procedure before they have undergone malignant transformation and will be biopsied to determine whether or not it was cancerous. Polyps are a common find during routine colonoscopies and are usually benign.
While the majority of colonoscopies are used to detect colorectal cancer, the procedure can also help diagnose other gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulosis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and other unexplained digestive symptoms.
Why Are Colonoscopies Crucial for Seniors?
1. Colon Cancer is More Common in Older Adults
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States, and its risk increases with age. The American Cancer Society estimates that a person’s risk of colorectal cancer increases with age, with about 90% of all colorectal cancers occurring in people aged 50 and older. For this reason, screenings are suggested for average-risk individuals starting at age 45. Older adults have a higher risk of forming polyps or early-stage colorectal cancer; thus, regular screening is important. It is recommended to get a colonoscopy every 10 years unless otherwise advised by your doctor. Early detection through regular colonoscopies has proven to greatly improve survival rates through early treatment.
2. Polyps Can Be Prevented from Becoming Cancerous
Colorectal cancer largely starts from polyps, as they can turn cancerous over time. During a colonoscopy, your doctor can easily remove polyps before they develop into cancer. Simply by getting regular screening, you can cut a great deal of the risk of colon cancer.
3. Early Detection Saves Lives
One of the most powerful reasons to have any routine health check is early detection and early treatment. Most of the time, colorectal cancer does not have symptoms in its early stages, which often means people do not know they have it until it has worsened. If detected early, it is most treatable, and the chances for successful outcomes are higher. Colonoscopies give doctors the ability to catch these issues before they become life-threatening.
Beyond the detection of cancer, colonoscopies can aid in diagnosing a variety of other gastrointestinal ailments. Problems like unexplained abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, or rectal bleeding are often related to conditions that can be more effectively treated when they are caught early.
4. A History of Cancer or Family Members with Cancer Increases Your Risk
If you have a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting colonoscopy screenings earlier than the typical age of 45. For seniors with a history of colorectal cancer or other pre-existing conditions, regular screenings can be vital to staying ahead of the disease.
Other Colon Cancer Risk Factors:
• Age: Colon cancer risk increases with age, primarily in people over 50.
• Family history: Genetic predisposition or a history of colon cancer in the family increases the risk.
• Personal history: A history of colon cancer or certain kinds of polyps can increase the risk.
• Lifestyle factors include the following: high intake of red and processed meat, obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, high consumption of alcohol, inflammatory bowel disease, gallbladder removal, type 2 diabetes, and low intake of calcium, vitamin D, and folate.
How Often Should Seniors Get a Colonoscopy?
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults aged 45 and older begin regular screenings for colorectal cancer. For most people, this means a colonoscopy every 10 years, assuming no family history of colorectal cancer and no other concerning symptoms. However, seniors with certain risk factors—such as a family history of colon cancer or the presence of previous polyps—may need more frequent screenings, as often as every 2 to 5 years. Your doctor can help you determine the appropriate screening schedule based on your specific health history and risk factors.
What to Expect During a Colonoscopy
While the thought of a colonoscopy might sound intimidating, the procedure itself is relatively simple and typically an outpatient procedure. You will be given a sedative to keep you relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. The small tube and camera device will then be gently inserted into the rectum, and your doctor will inspect the colon for any abnormalities. Most patients recover quite fast and have little to no complications, usually only some pain and light bleeding (if anything was removed for biopsy). You may experience some bloating or mild cramping afterward, but these symptoms generally resolve quickly.
Overcoming Fear or Hesitation
The idea of having a camera take a look around you might make you hesitant, understandably so, but the awkwardness and discomfort are far outweighed by the benefits. Colonoscopies have saved countless lives through early detection of cancers and can provide peace of mind for you as well.
If you are due for a colonoscopy or have any other concerns regarding your digestive health, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider for an appointment.
By investing in this lifesaving screening, you’ll know that you’re taking every measure to preserve your health and ensure you’re able to enjoy a long, healthy, and happy life.
And remember, colonoscopies are important, they can help doctors get to the bottom of your health issues!
At Senior Industry Services, we’re dedicated to helping seniors stay healthy, active, and informed. If you need assistance finding resources or have any questions about health services in your area, reach out to us today for support.
Written for Senior Industry Services by Lauren Hope Bartling
