Colonoscopies Are Great For Prevention, But Also Peace of Mind

It’s no secret that a colonoscopy is one of the best cancer screenings and prevention exams out there. But did you ever think about the peace of mind a colonoscopy provides?

A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine says that evidence supports the overall effectiveness of the test when it comes to detecting colorectal cancers. It had been thought that the fiber-optic scope was more efficient at finding and removing precancerous polyps on the colon’s left side, or that closest to the rectum. The study, however, showed that the procedure was equally effective at ridding the right side, or that farthest away from the rectum, of polyps as well.

Overall, researchers found that those who had a colonoscopy had a 77 percent reduction in colorectal cancer risk.

So if you’re thinking about adding this important colon cancer screening to your overall health regimen, consider the peace of mind you’ll get. Contacting your primary care physician and talking through your options is a small price to pay for reassurance.