A Surgeon's Perspective: Colonoscopies Aren't as Scary as You Think

As a general surgeon who spends a fair amount of time inside colons (yes, I said it!), I want to talk to you about colon cancer screening. I know, it's not exactly dinner conversation, but it's a conversation that could save your life.

Colon cancer is a serious threat, but the good news is, it's often preventable. We find and remove precancerous polyps during screening, stopping cancer before it even starts. And when it comes to finding those polyps, colonoscopy is the gold standard. It gives us the most complete picture of your colon, often allowing us to identify and remove any potential problems right then and there.

Patient Comfort is a Priority

Now, I understand the hesitation. The procedure itself might seem a little intimate, but let me assure you, we treat every patient with the utmost dignity and respect. We understand that it can be a vulnerable experience, and we go to great lengths to ensure your comfort and privacy. In fact, patients are comfortably sedated during the procedure and usually don't remember a thing! It's like a power nap with a purpose.

Colonoscopy Prep Isn’t That Bad

No discussion would be complete without mentioning the prep. Let’s be real, it still isn’t great, but I like to think of it this way: drinking clear liquids for a day or two, and cleaning out the colon so the provider gets a good look is significantly better than getting colon cancer. Most people will have clear liquids all day, and start the prep at about 5PM. There are a couple options available, which can be discussed with the provider’s office.  Patients will be given specific instructions regarding the prep, so ask questions and clarify concerns before completing the prep.

Number 1 Takeaway: Get Screened

The important thing is to get screened. Current guidelines recommend starting regular screening at age 45 for people at average risk. If you have a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors, talk to your doctor about starting earlier.

Look, while I recognize that nobody wants a colonoscopy, I truly believe it's a small price to pay for peace of mind and a significantly reduced risk of colon cancer. So, schedule that appointment, embrace the prep (as much as you can), and know that you're taking a proactive step for your health.