Colonoscopy
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
Health's Top Stories
Get a weekly look at the most popular stories on Health.com.
Colonoscopy
content provided by
Healthwise
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.
- People with a higher risk, such as African Americans and people with a strong family history of colon cancer, should be tested sooner. Talk to your doctor about when you should be tested.
PREVIOUS
NEXT
Last Updated:
August 11, 2008- Author:
- Monica Rhodes
- Medical Review:
- Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Peter J. Kahrilas, MD - Gastroenterology
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
