When Should You Stop Getting Colonoscopies?

Most people should start colorectal cancer screening with a colonoscopy at age 45. For those at higher risk, earlier screening may be necessary. Colonoscopies are highly effective — they help detect cancer early and can even prevent it by identifying and removing precancerous polyps. But at what age should you stop?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. While 75 was previously considered the age to stop routine screening, new research suggests that healthy adults between 75 and 85 may still benefit. In fact, studies show that colonoscopies can reduce cancer risk and death even in older adults — as long as they are in good overall health.

That said, colonoscopies are medical procedures that come with risks, especially for older adults. These can include bleeding, infection, colon perforation, and complications from anesthesia. Preparation for the procedure can also cause dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which may be more dangerous as you age.

So how do you decide if your next colonoscopy is necessary? The choice should be based on your personal risk factors, medical history, and previous screening results — not age alone. If you’ve had several normal colonoscopies in the past and have no significant health issues, you may not need continued screening. But if you’ve never been screened and are otherwise healthy, screening might still be worthwhile well into your 80s.

Talk with your healthcare provider. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks, so you can make a decision that supports your health and peace of mind.

Information taken from an article by Good Rx