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Colonoscopy
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What To Think About
- In general, pregnant women and people who have an abdominal infection or diverticulitis should not have a colonoscopy unless there is an important reason for it.
- Colonoscopy is a more expensive procedure than a barium enema and other endoscopic colon tests (such as proctoscopy or sigmoidoscopy), but it can be done less often over time if results are normal.
- Experts recommend routine colon cancer testing for everyone age 50 and older who has a normal risk for colon cancer.
- Your doctor may recommend earlier or more frequent testing if you have a higher risk for colon cancer. Talk to your doctor about when you should be tested.
- Which screening test you choose depends on your risk, your preference, and your doctor. Talk to your doctor about what puts you at risk and what test is best for you.
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April 29, 2011© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
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