When is it TIME to STOP Colon Cancer Screening?
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- čas přidán 28. 05. 2023
- Have you been told its time to stop colon cancer screening? Or do you wonder if you really need another colonoscopy, and think its time to stop having a colonoscopy?
In this video, I discuss how we decide when it is time to stop colon cancer screening. First, its important to understand the goal of a colonoscopy - to prevent colon cancer. And that is done by removing polyps that may turn into colon cancer in the future. Second, I talk about when polyps may become cancer. Third, I explain why only having one colonoscopy isnt enough and if stool based colon cancer screening is ok. Fourth, I discuss how GI doctors determine how frequent your colonoscopies should be based on how many polyps or what type of polyps you have. Fifth, I eplain why someone would want to stop having colon cancer screening and what the guidlines state as a reasonable timeframe. Additionally, i talk about where the guidlines are not clear and how you and your doctor can explore when is the best time for you to stop screening. While a colonoscopy has many benefits, there are risks for people who have severe conditions and may not be the right choice for people with other comorbidities. So discuss these factors with your doctor!
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DISCLAIMER: While I am a Gastroenterologist, I am not acting as your Gastroenterologist. The information provided on this channel is intended to be general educational content and not directed towards any one individual. If you believe you have a medical condition that deserves attention please seek care from your healthcare provider. If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency, call 911.
Pressure from hospitals on gastroenterologists to bring home the bacon leads to many unnecessary colonoscopies. This doc is a breath of fresh air.
Had colonoscopy at age 52 and was diagnosed with colon cancer. Screening save my life and have been cancer free since.
I had my first colonoscopy at 59. They found 2 small polyps and a “flat polyp”. It was quite large at 20mm. I had it scraped and tested and was negative. They weren’t in a position to remove it during the colonoscopy….so I got it removed 1.5 months later. That was yesterday. From what I been reading a flat polyp is more prone to turn to cancer. So I’m glad I finally gave in and got the colonoscopy. Maybe saved me from colon cancer in the future.
For me the only bad thing is the prep the day before.
I know, I was going to install a five-point harness on the toilet to prevent being blasted into orbit. The most important rule of survival during that phase is to never trust a fart. Be warned, it isn't a fart.
I added some peach lemon ice tea crystals to the gallon of prep the morning before and refrigerated it. I was a little worried because of the color but after calling the VA they said it was alright to use that peach lemon ice tea since the color was a brown and not purple or red. All went well after the procedure.
Yeah, about that. Seems like it's not so cut and try. On my last screening, I woke up with the surgeon wagging his finger at me about not being 'cleaned out enough'. I had done exactly as I was instructed. Seems like there was a hiccup with the pharmacist and the instructions. Now, the same GI nurse at the office is denying that....same one who told me about it originally. I'm getting a diagnostic procedure next month. Includes three days of fasting and BS. Oh boy......
@@earthwormscrawl Thanks for the mental picture. Lol
I just don't get the issue...I LOVE to get CLEANED OUT...I feel sooooo good thereafter!!!!
My dad has his first colonoscopy at 88 years old and was diagnosed with colon cancer. I guess there is no way of telling how long he had it, but he was a heavy smoker. They wanted to do all sorts of surgery on him and he said NO! The doctor was surprised at his answer. So he had radiation and chemo and the huge tumor shrank down to nothing. He lived about six more years until the cancer show up again in his liver. But he did have a really healthy life for those last years without surgery.
I’m not sure I’d choose radiation and chemo over surgery but I guess it would depend on what the surgery results would mean for my lifestyle. He seemed happy with his decision so that’s enough.
@@gstlbStaying on point, my father had his first colonoscopy at 80 and they discovered stage 2 colon cancer, although it was still contained. He opted for surgery and they conducted a bowel resection and took about 6" out of him, removing the cancer. My father then refused follow-up with chemo and radiation treatments and the cancer returned 18 months later. He died from it (plus pneumonia) at 83 1/2. Typically, for the best results, colon cancer surgery includes both radiation and chemo treatments.
They radiated an 88 year old man?? WHAT??? That alone would usually be grounds for malpractice. The tissue of older people can't handle radiation - it basically causes tissue to whither and die. And you claim he lived another 6 years problem free??? I'm finding this hard to believe.
My dad's second wife had the surgery, about 6-8"" cut out. All went well, then she came home,died in bed that first night. Imagine my father, trying to cuddle her for good morning and she was stiff as a dodo.
Radiation usually follows surgery to make sure the cancer is gone. Radiation is no big deal. Dying from colon cancer is a big deal. Each to their own.
I have stage 4 colon cancer. I was ONE year late for my colonoscopy and was diagnosed with stage 3b colon cancer at age 61. It then metastesized to my liver. Trust me everyone, as bad as the prep is, it is much worse to have colon cancer!
Thanks for sharing. Good luck with therapy. Are you receiving immunotherapy?
@@MarkCooperMD Yes, I’m on Keytruda! I started treatment in August with mets to liver. My last PET scan showed the arrest of the mets to liver and scanty residual disease. I have Lynch syndrome. Feeling great now!
I'm 75 and have undergone 6 colonoscopies. After the last one when I was 68, I asked the Dr. how many polyps has he ever removed from me. When he went over my records and replied "I've never removed any", I thought "I'm done with this".
You've made the right decision.
@@Louis_A640 He may have had a very strong family history of colon cancer. Or maybe the surgeon was scoping for money.
@@Louis_A640 You drew a conclusion without getting all the facts. I had a serious peritonitis incident which is why the Dr. kept such a close eye on me in the first place. He told me I was at much higher risk for problems, but was not specific as to what it might be. This went on for 22 years. I'm 75 now.
Well I am of a similar age and have had about that number and have had about 4 first two at the beginning and two more last time though they where small.
If it aint broke, don't let them in to break it. Mammograms cause cancer, and are not effective in truly determining it. I do not understand why anyone over 50, or any age actually, trust that profession, at all, anymore.
I had an aunt who had colon cancer at age 84, and she lived to 96 after treatment. I intend to keep having colonoscopies, but found that doctors seem very cheerful about telling me that I don't need them after age 80 - without asking about family history. I have had one polyp so far, found at age 60.
Removing a small polyp over age 80 is unlikely of much actual benefit. The problem isn’t the polyp but what it could become in the future. I can see likely benefit of taking a look in the age range of 80-85 for the right patient.
I had my last colonoscopy at 70, no polyps. The surgeon said he didn’t need to ever see me again 😊
did your insurance drop you , or what?
My doctor said the same thing after removing several pre cancerous polyps.
I had my first at 51 and had the procedure every 5 years since then. Now miraculously I don't need colonoscopies anymore.
Yes, for some strange reason they do not do pap smears, cervical cancer checks after a woman reaches 46. Sounds like it's for profit only.
@@gavnonadoroge3092 hah, no! Evidently colon cancer is slow and I’ve not had pre-cancerous polyps, so the doctors figure that even if I develop colon cancer, something else will kill me first 😏
Surgeon? Surgeons don't do colonoscopy. Liar.
I am 84, my Dr. told me she didn’t want to see me anymore at 75. I have several polyps that were removed that were the kinds that cause cancer. Both of my parents had colon cancer, an uncle and a grandmother had stomach cancer. I am now having concerning symptoms. I often questioned why my wellness check wants me to keep having mammograms but totally ignore the risk I had for colon cancer. Especially now!! 😮
What you describe is a case I would typically recommend continued screening. First degree relatives with cancer and a personal history of having polyps. Thankfully they grow slowly enough that I’m hopeful you would not having anything serious and removing polyps at this time would still be preventative. Past 85 I think the risks start to become greater than the likely benefit even for patients with fairly high risk (presuming they otherwise kept up with screening).
In summary - consider getting one more scope for prevention and peace of mind.
I feel your pain and concern. Because of your history like mine I would continue to have them if anything just for your peace of mind. Find a dr. that will do it for you. I had my dad die from colon cancer and my mom from breast cancer. It is scary when you know your history. I think you are wise willing to still pursue it. I wish you the best.
@@MarkCooperMD
You can reverse what called Gene. You can control your life. The diseases carried by ancestors and parents throughout the family came from ignorance. Decades ago a lot of things we don't know and that affects our health and longevity. Don't blame on Gene. Women in my family mother side didn't live pass 60, died of cancer, breast, oral, pancreatitis cancer. Because they didn't know. Technology did not exist and knowledge on science was very limited. Men in the family were heavy smokers and smoked in the house while holding their babies on their lap. People cooked with granola and vegetables oils thinking it's healthy. My mom added sugar in every single food, a pack of 100 pounds table sugar finished in a month or less! Am not exaggerating. She ended up with diabetes that lead to complications as pancreatitis cancer. She was a pharmacist.
With all those terrible mistakes we cannot blame on Gene. My father side almost everyone passed with stroke or heart attack, eating junk or wrong food. No exercise but sitting together arguing on politics. I know where I came from. I put more time researching the best to improve my existence. We may make mistakes sometimes, of course we all do, but the more we know the better we live.
My case was the antipode of yours. Best wishes and good luck!
It’s time to find another doctor
Had two at 50 and 55. No polyps or family history of colon cancer. Could not tolerate the fasting and prep and at 73 am super healthy with all systems functioning normally. My decision.
I guess your tolerance level is very low!
@@curbozerboomer1773 I almost passed out from the fasting due to a sharp drop in my blood sugar. I will never get this test again. I feel very safe rolling the dice on colon cancer. My body, my choice, my life.
And the risk of anesthesia and bowel perforation…..I agree with you! I just do random stool guaiac testing. This is the old standard testing. Sometimes new is not better.
@@HappyLife-wv5msI’m 65; have had 3 colonoscopies in my life. My grandmother, who smoked and had a terrible diet, died of colon cancer in about 1980 at age 65 or so. I’ve had a few polyps removed. I HATE the prep, and last prep time got dehydrated with headache, and threw up in the pre-op room. (The tech/nurse didn’t believe me when I said I was going to throw up.) I’m leery of not only the risk of bowel perforation, but also the possible infection with the ‘scope, and the damage removing all my colon’s intestinal flora does. I’ve cleaned up my diet a lot in the last year, (it’s now very low carb, under 10 grams carbs each day) and I’m okay with putting off or maybe even not ever getting another colonoscopy in my life.
p@@susangrande8142
Thank you for explaining this in a low tone voice !!!!!. 🎉❤
Excellent, excellent report. I am a retired 74 year old Internist in great health with a lousy family history of colon cancer. I think the most important point here is that you do yourself a disservice by not talking to your DOCTOR about colonoscopy. Not a Physician Assistant. Not a Nurse Practitioner. And god knows, not a Chiropractor. A real, trained doctor! Both of my father's parents had colo-rectal cancers in the mid 1950s. They survive and died of cardiac disease. My father had both thyroid cancer and died of lung cancer. Neither he nor his sisters and bother had colon cancer. My then 49 year old brother had a lemon sized, malignant polyp removed from his colon. He's still alive and kicking. Me? First colonoscopy like a good boy age 51 (the age 45 recommendation came later, and that is super important if you are Black. Colo-rectal cancer DOES discriminate and has no intentions of stopping.) I had 2 millimeter sized flat polyps. Because of my brother's history, we repeated my study after 5 years. Clean. I got busy, covid showed up, and I had no desire to do the prep. I did a genetic stool analysis at 10 years. Clean. Medical allows a repeat test after 3 years. It came back positive - whatever that means. I repeated the full colonoscopy, more than 20 years after my initial, essentially unremarkable baseline screening. The stool screening test turned out to be a false positive - still no polyps or malignancies in my gut. And my doctor wants to repeat it in 5 years. In 5 years, if I'm still alive, I'll consider it, but almost certainly won't go through with it. I am more worried about general anesthesia and the risk of intestinal perforation/puncture from the procedure than I am of the findings. Decisions need to be made, but they need to be good, rational decisions!
Thanks for watching. The cologuard doesn’t add much over the FIT. Stool DNA markers aren’t highly reliable and considerably more expensive vs. FIT test. FIT is actually a part of the cologuard anyway and very often it’s the FIT portion that’s positive - so you effectively paid $600 for a drug store test.
You seem to have dodged your brothers fate (and thankfully your brother dodged his own fate as well).
I'm now working on getting his kids screened over the next few years. Oldest daughter just turned 40, making her 1 year late for her early screening. His son is due next year, and younger daughter in about 4 years. We urge the children to get screened at an age 10 years younger that the parent was at the time of diagnosis. My parents insisted to their deathbeds that I was not adopted. I told them for years that it was okay that I was, it doesn't bother me. If I weren't adopted, then babies had to have been switched before I was taken home. Dr H, MD, IM@@MarkCooperMD
Thank you!
Hi there. Nurse here, old one haha. 60. You don’t have to have the anesthesia. They commonly do it without meds in Europe I have read. I got the IV in case I tapped out ;) but procedure went okay. Glad I didn’t use meds (I like to be in control of my mind). A bit uncomfortable at splenic and hepatic bends/flexure but definitely will do that way again next round. Hop of the table… can drive yourself home :) that’s pretty sweet. And (!) they have to go slower so I think a lower chance of perforation maybe 🤔. Take care
@@MarkCooperMD Happy to report in both instances, insurance covered the full cost of the tests. The fact that I received a report that read "Positive", but not what that positive meant means I won't be repeating the cologuard, free or otherwise.
I had one and that was enough. What a horrific experience.
I agree it is not pleasant, however, I would rather deal with the few days of discomfort to avoid a horrific, lingering death that shortens my life significantly.....
Eat a lot of vegetables and fruit the day before the day before and you will get emptied out quickly!
The drink is not horrific anymore. You can now take Miralax. No bad taste.
cancer would be worse and not for just 1 day.
Would you rather die? It’s not bad at all to sit on the toilet for a few hours during the night before.
Really well explained. I'm glad he mentioned that there are some risks to a colonoscopy as well so that's part of the decision process. My husband had some polyps taken off over the years and I am very glad he had the colonoscopies because he is unlikely now to get colon cancer.
I don't remember him mentioning risks although he did say something about (age-related) comorbidities. I am 70 and am going to take my chances and forego a colonoscopy (yes, against professional advice). I'm going to gamble the odds. I am immuno-compromised, and had a bad case of c.diff many years ago (following a sigmoidoscopy, curiously, which may have been co-incidental) which nearly killed me. Yes, I run the occult blood test every two years, and yes, I realize that by the time they should find blood it's probably too late (for a colonoscopy). But I am afraid a colonoscopy (and I'm referring to the prep procedure and the post-restoration, not just the colonoscopy--the "snaking"--itself) would ultimately kill me. I've got a sensitive gut and believe I could never restore the flora and fauna balance back right, even if there were no complications from the scope.
@@Rendog2 I hear you! After my last one, I couldn't "go" for a week, and I think he damaged the nerves down there (without going into a lot of sordid details). Plus, I had a major anxiety attack over the prep. And he still said I wasn't cleaned out enough. Then I had sigmoidoscopy; just about as bad (and not "clean" enough). I've had enough of docs looking up my rear end! The sleep was good the first time, but the second time, I felt irritable and depressed. I know I already have blood down there, but it's from hemorrhoids, and I've had that for 25 years, or so. If it's something else, I don't want to know, at this point. I have so many other things wrong with me, I'd rather just make a Will, and die. Not really, but that's how strongly I feel over such invasive techniques.
Sometimes the walls o the colon can be accidentally perforated. Guess they get thinner with age.
Super Merci Dr Cooper, after having seeing you on CZcams & hear your reassuring voice & your knowledge, I had my first colonoscopy today; everything was a wonderful journey, Dr Sohi was wonderful & all the other medical 😇
assisting, back home a few hours later, fear and apprehension replaced by a warm well-being Merci Dr Cooper❤Your series of CZcams videos help me in overcoming my fears Bravo🎉you’re 😇
I’m glad it was helpful to you! Thanks for sharing.
I am 70 and decided no matter what the risk I’ll will not have anymore colonoscopy’s. The prep is so medieval.
If you’ve had no concerning lesions to date then I don’t think this is severely ill advised. Not what I’d want for a sibling but not something I’d nag them about either.
Yea and how about that tube in your keister what would you call that?
@@vietnamvet4533A brief inconvenience. … I think cancer is worse!
Some of the new prep is much improved. Suprep doesn't taste bad and can be mixed with sprite.
Cologuard requires no prop
My father died at 61 from an aggressive form of colon cancer. He had always had the regular evenings. No signs. One day he was putting on his seat belt and felt pain in his neck as the belt brushed a lump. The lump was malignant and secondary. The cancer had already metastasized. Stage 4 colon cancer. He died 7 months after diagnosis.
My last two scopes found polyps with abnormal cells. They were not yet precancerous. But they were the type that will grow to cancer if not removed.
Our son is at higher risk because he also has crohns and is a Hodgkin's lymphoma survivor. He has had more colonoscopies than I have.
A very informative podcast. Thank you very much.
What a magnificent voice and presentation you have. Very helpful video; I am 79 and deciding since I have had some polyps removed in the past.
Very well laid out. I'm 67 and have never had issues with polyps. However, colon cancer runs high on BOTH sides of my family. For that reason, I started getting colonoscopies in my early 40's. The doctor told me he wishes he could find a 12 year old with a colon as clear as mine. I'm the only one in my family that has a VERY clean diet with lots of raw fruits and veggies. Same goes with blood pressure issues on both sides of the family for the 3 generations, most of which take BP medication. I don't need them because I don't eat processed food. BUT I still plan to have colonoscopies because of the family history. What Dr. Cooper has done for me is make me feel more relaxed that I'm not likely to have a problem in the future.
thanks for watching!! glad the video made sense!
Stop bragging, please!
Thank you, that was very helpful. I will have a conversation with my GI guy next year and keep your guidelines in mind.
thanks for watching and good luck!!
Dr. Cooper is great! He's so on point and speaks in an easy, convincing, understanding way that a non doctor can understand. I wish he was my GI doctor. I do wish "older person" was better defined though, like what age range is a colonoscopy no longer beneficial
It depends on overall health and estimate of longevity. Which is not a well defined concept and very individual. Thanks for watching!
When you see brain tissue in the toilet bowl, you know your prep is complete.
😂😂😂😂@@brucetaylor6107
@@brucetaylor6107 That comment WINS!!!!
I'm going to be 65 tomorrow and I have had only 1 small polyp removed 4 years ago. I am so glad that this doctor explained the decision making process so clearly. Now my doctor and I can make informed decisions about future colonoscopies!
Very informative and helpful video. Many thanks, Dr. Cooper.
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching
Thank you for your video. I hope people will get their colonoscopy, it’s a lifesaver. I lost a grandmother, two uncles, two aunts, they were dads siblings to colon cancer. My father had sigmoid and contrast colon X-ray. The Dr removed several polyps from dad, some were cancer. Dr said dad’s colon was carpeted with polyps. They removed dad’s colon, he was 39 years old. Dad and mom insisted my brother, my sister and I get checked. My 18 year old brother was worse than dad, I was clean and so was my sister. For years I got that miserable sigmoid and contrast X-ray and in my lifetime only one benign polyp was found, I’m 72 now. Dad had 6 inches of colon remaining same as my brother. For years the Dr was removing new polyps from my dad and my brother with some being malignant and some not. They were going through that procedure every 6 months. My brother stopped going, I don’t know why but he died of colon cancer when he was 53. Dad never gave up, he was going back every 3 months and the Dr was still removing new polyps, some cancer, some not. My sister did have her colon removed when she was 39 after the Dr said she had too many polyps to count and half he removed were cancer. I know this is a lot to say but what I know for a fact is, some polyps don’t need time to grow into cancer. The colonoscopy was a godsend to me. That sigmoid and that contrast colon is one miserable way to check a person.
I was hoping for a better discussion of risks. A physician friend said he will not get a colonoscopy because of the risks, and that he knows other physicians who feel the same way.
Other videos. We have to keep them a reasonable length.
Your physician friends sound like they’re making an emotional decision out of fear. Which is perfectly fine. But they do a disservice by casting their view as a better understanding of risks.
The risk factor is very low! I mean, ANY invasive procedure can go bad, but if any complications develop, you will have doctors right there to help you. That is how I see any invasive procedure...I have had four such procedures, dealing with heart issues. My attitude is, if you are in the hands of a good doctor--but die anyway--then that is just your fate, so accept that which you cannot control!
@@MarkCooperMD My mother went in for a 'routine' colonoscopy, they somehow punctured the bowel, she went septic, and was in and out of the ICU with frequent trips to the OR to rise out the peritoneum. She almost died. Lost 70 pounds.( she's 5'10" and weighed 160+ when she went in). Might not happen to everyone, but it only takes ONE to scare the crap out of us.
Exactly... people think there are NO risks, but there are. Also, I once read, those instruments they never get cleaned 100%. It's hard to get into all those nooks and crannies.
I appreciate the discussion. I’m going for a colonoscopy because I had a bleed, probably hemorrhoids and not worrisome but my primary care doctor recommended I go. I’ve had one polyp on my first one and no polyps on my last one. No family history of colon cancer and I eat a lot of vegetables and fruits in my diet. So maybe I don’t need to go at all?
I’ve also read there are controlled studies showing that a low residue diet for the prep would work just as well as the liquid diet, any thoughts on that? It’s pretty Juki ( white bread or rice, eggs, dairy that i can not eat, but still better than only liquids. I’m doing the liquid preparation anyway with a partial day before on the low residue diet, because that’s what doctor wants. Even worse than a liquid diet, the kit prep is 6 Pm and 2 am before the procedure! I am also having coughing due to sinus congestion due to allergy season is in full swing but will proceed with the preparation!
Thank You Dr Cooper... Yes, Very Helpful... 😊 👍
My mom is 88 and has never had a colonoscopy. So far, no health issues!
My Dad lived to 91 and was never hit by a bus.
You have my sense of humor lol@@darrylcullen2409
Thanks Dr .Cooper highly educational and great information ❤️
I'll never have another. I had a colonoscopy in 2006 at age 55 and have still not recovered!
O my gosh. That's awful. I do hope you recover. Must be things that can help you. Keep trying new things to help u heal. For example CBD oil. Perhaps some other things. Good luck.
Not enough info to make any sense of what you say.
I had a colonoscopy and asked for ativan from the anesthesiologist because I was afraid, I watched him withdrawal the ativan from the pixis and put it in his pocket, never gave it to me.
@@montanagal6958 OMG ! Hope you tried to report it ! Too bad your blood couldn't have been tested ( by a different lab ) to show you had no trace of it in your system ! If it would've showed , IDK if that shows up as some things don't .
This is exactly what I needed. Thank you.
The prep is terrible. I have a friend who in the middle of god awful prep walked into the bathroom feeling weak. She fainted and hit her head on the sink. She needed stiches. My poor friend was lucky she didn't fracture her skull.
I can't deal with the prep anymore either. It's dangerous
That's how I feel, too. I'd have it done in hospital-- if necessary, but of course my insurance wouldn't pay for that. And nowadays, ppl pick up horrible diseases in hospitals, too. Also, they are so short staffed, I could hit my head on the sink there, and no one would ever know. I speak from experience being in hospital for other reasons.
Prep is really easy and not a problem at all. It only lasts a few days antway.
@@rogerphelps9939 Not easy. A good prep does two things. It entirely empties your GI tract and it causes dehydration. Dehydration can make you lightheaded and can be dangerous to a fragile person.
@@rogerphelps9939 No, the prep is not "really easy and no problem at all." No one likes the prep. If you didn't have any trouble with it, I am glad for you.
But I had some trouble. I took Suprep ten years ago. If I do get another colonoscopy I will not take Suprep!! The second day I had trouble drinking it. My body rejected it and I vomited. It was essentially just water, but still, not pleasant. Fasting wasn't a big deal. Just over a day of fasting. The actual procedure was a breeze. I believe most people probably don't get sick with the prep.
Best piece of advice I got with the prep. Once you start drinking the solution to clean out your colon: If you feel like you're going to pass gas, DO NOT assume you're just going to pass gas!
My doctor put me on a "light" prep- Miralax and some tablets. It really was not that bad. I did not have horrible cramps, and tolerated it. It was much better than earlier preps which gave me horrible stomach aches for a week.
Thank you for this information! I have had colonoscopy’s done over the years and never had any polyps. Guess at 79 years of age another colonoscopy would be out of the question. Family history of colon cancer is in only one individual who was my father’s half sister. The other siblings had none.
Great Dr !! and handsome too ...very clear talking !
Thank you for your video that puts everything about colonoscopies into perspective.
Thank you. I'm 70 and have had polyps removed my last two colonoscopys
I am under the VA health care. I'm 76 years old. I've had a colonoscopy probably every 3 or 4 years since 1995. Every time they have found polyps, cut them out and then said they were not the kind that would turn cancerous. The last time I went to the VA they said they got me to 75 so they are not going to worry about that anymore. I guess this video clarifies that thinking.
My doc said I could stop at 75. Good thing because I almost bonked my head passing out during prep. I knew I could never do the prep again.
Thank you Mark. At 71 I’d like my NEXT scope be my last as my polyps are never suspect, just polyps. Done with pap smears too. I do have longevity on my Mom’s side though.
This was a most informative video, so thanks!!!!
Thank you, doctor, you are a breath of fresh air. So much misinformation and villainization of the medical profession nowadays.
Thanks to this video I have had my last colonoscopy. Three colonoscopies in the past 30 years and no polyps. I’m done, thanks.
Thanks for sharing!
I had my first colonoscopy at the age of 65. I had one benign polyp. No colon cancer in my family. I am extremely healthy. I not only eat a high fiber diet, but I take supplemental fiber and have for 30 years. I don’t eat meat or drink or smoke. And I will not have another colonoscopy even though my doctor mentions it every time I see him. I believe he has to to cover his butt. So I tell him to note in my chart that he suggested it and to also note in his chart that I refused it. I’m 73 now. I’m done with that.
I will not participate in cancer screenings. I don't believe in looking for trouble. Plus, it's scary how much they push the tests. So I am assuming the tests are like the c ones and come contaminated with cancer causing ingredients. I find I stay much healthier staying away from doctors. Seven years now and at age 64, I've never been healthier. No prescription drugs are why. I gave those up and miracles followed.
I liked your comment. I'm 72 and live the healthiest possible life. My one colonoscopy at 54 found no polyps. I listen to my doctor's spiel about mammograms and colonoscopies every year and every year I refuse. When my body decides to kill me, I plan to die. Living to extreme old age holds no attractions for me. Meanwhile, I continue exercising and eating a whole food plant based diet. I wish you the best.
Well done. Also the prep would kill an eighty-year-old sooner than a polyp. 😢
Not So! 81 now, have my prep, not hard to do at all! Don’t be afraid and have faith God will get you thru, or you wouldn’t be alive……
I’d follow your advice as a healthy 76 year old.
Very useful information, thanks.
My mother had her last colonoscopy at 70 and was told to come back at 75. She never did and was diagnosed stage 4 colon cancer at 80. She was healthy and vibrant in every other aspect, but we lost her. I am now 65 and have had 3 so far with my 4th coming this year. I refuse to make the same mistake.
Very well done sir. I will continue to have colonastame tests. I'm 66 and plan on living 100+ yrs God willing.
My mom was 93 and never had one. She died of old age.
I'm 68, never had a colonoscopy. I'll wait till there's a less archaic method.
Me too
Me three
You’re missing out on the best sleep you’ll ever have. Live in Canada, I was surprised to find that they recommend a series of stool samples instead of a Colonscopy at age 50.
I'm 68...never had it also....
I said that when I was 50 years old then when I turned 60 I had my first colonoscopy and if you fast a few days before taking the prep stuff it’s not that bad next week I’m having my second one I’m 70 now
67 - Never having a another one.
If you’ve had mundane results on prior screening this is a sensible age to stop screening as you’re fairly unlikely to have a problem in the future
Good job with this video.
Everyone wants to live forever. Good luck!
Not me! I want to stay as healthy as possible for as long as possible through exercise and a healthy diet. When my body decides to fail me, I'm ready to go.
Hello Dr Cooper! I’m afraid that I’m going to need a colonoscopy at least once per year up until the last year of my life. My Lynch Syndrome has turned me into a polyp growing machine with dysplasia cells as well!
I welcome this “wonderful” experience others seem to have…I have NEVER had a wonderful experience having a colonoscopy! 😞
I've had 2 so far and might have another next year (at least my doctor has it listed for 'things to do' in 2025). I was always asleep for them, so I didn't mind. But I hate all that prep drinking that nasty liquid. But I do it. 😒
@@Ron4885 For me, the prep was far worse than the procedure itself!
Profanol keeps me coming back for more!
@@dogsarefun2 😉
I almost needed a trip to the ER from the prep alone. Never again.
Thank you for this video! Ill be 74 in a few weeks and just had my third colonoscopy two weeks ago. Two tiny normal polyps found and removed. My mother did have colon cancer, but recovered completely and lived to be 86, dying of something else.
The prep was awful, and Id prefer not to do it again in my dotage. Both my parents lived to their mid 80s. I will have to think seriously about all this.
Thanks for sharing. I hope it was educational and provides context when you come to the next interval to consider a colonoscopy, which sounds like it may be at 79.
The mere idea at 77 that I do the prep for a colonoscopy is mind blowing. I refuse to do it anymore because A: I will have sh*t from one end of my apartment to the bathroom and B; I guess I would prefer not to '"bleed out" like two women know did.
Bleed out?
@@MarkCooperMD Neighbor, Retired RN, began bleeding after colonoscopy when she came home; called rescue squad and laid by front door; waiting to die. Squad took her to hospital, where she spent two weeks recovering.. She is over 70 now. I will not have one at 77.
Sorry that occurred. It’s highly unusual that a bleed from polyp removal be that dramatic. From training and practice in high volume medical centers this is about a once a year event-so I’d estimate 1:10,000.
Which I’ll add I never saw anyone have to be in the hospital that long. This type of case is why I think we as GI docs need to be sensible about who we scope.
@@MarkCooperMD Thank you for respinding. I agree that it must be unusual, but two women I know have had this happen. I do know that doctors do their very best in test recommendation and I am very happy with my family doctor.
It is super easy and not a problem.
I had my first colonoscopy about 25 years ago when I was 50 and one small polyp was found. Since then I have had regular colonoscopies with the last one a couple of months ago. All have found nothing and my doctor said I could have another colonoscopy in 5 years (I will be 80) if I want. After seeing this video you have reinforced my decision to skip it. There is no history of colon cancer in my family
There are also risks of having them the older you get, like perforating your colon. No thanks.
I was 68 when I had my last colonoscopy, no polyps, and the DR said no more test for 10 yrs. I was happy. But unfortunately, I will continue to have endoscopies. I lost count of how many I had. 2 mos. ago I had a 2 hr. one. It was an endo flip and closing a gastro-gastric fistula. It was brutal.
Dr. Cooper as a retired water and wastewater tech for a municipality all my procedures used in the lab have to be documented and presented to anyone asking for them. Since our autoclave repairman was over 100 miles away I learned to repair and maintain it for our bacteria analysis. I have had colonoscopies every 5 years due to my grandmother having colon cancer. I have always done it without anesthesia. Since colonoscopes cannot be sterilized in an autoclave (steam at high temperatures is hard to beat), can only be disinfected, and the CDC has said 100% of the biodirt cannot be removed from an endoscope, would you think it reasonable for a patient to ask for the written cleaning procedure (pdf file)? I just read an article showing a better disinfection with peracetic acid vs glutaraldehyde. Thanks for your time.
As someone with Crohns disease, I've got used to regular colonoscopies every 18 months or so. Unlike the first time, they no longer seem a big deal at all! Also, preps seem to have got much better, at least in some cases. Relatively small amounts of Miraliax really beat Go-Lightly which I had in the early days.
Really? I wish my doctor would let me just do that.
I’m 77 and asked my doctor about a colonoscopy. I’ve never had one. Easier procedure now so thought I should have one. My doctor said that, because I have no family history, no symptoms and I do the home tests, I don’t require one. I was surprised.
I would tend to oblige a patient who wants one irregardless of age (presuming reasonably healthy) or prior home tests. Home tests are somewhat accurate and only exclude cancer at that point in time. They are poor predictions of your future risks and do nothing to prevent cancer.
He isn't a doctor of literature. Give him a break!
Actually either is acceptable. Regardless is more formal and proper for sure though. A part of my practice when on call in the ER is to help remove things placed in inappropriate orifices. If you need help with that stick, let me know. Sounds like it’s pretty far up there, but that’s what we have the long gloves for.
@@MarkCooperMD 😂😂😂
I feel that patients should have a say in choice of prep drinks. I didn't want a gallon of whatever and i was offered SuPrep. I was able to drink it all within a few minutes with immediate results. I also heard horror stories of folks still 'going' the next day right up until their appointment. I decided to take a dose of immodium after i was thoroughly 'cleaned out' and i had zero issues the day of my appointment. For anyone reading this, please know that im just sharing my personal story and my dr was informed of my plan and approved. Always check with your doctor and do your own research for any procedure. PS ...the procedure is absolutely nothing to fear. Good luck to everyone
I agree. The cost of different preps can be considerable. One approach is to get a prescription prep and if you find it is too expensive complete the miralax prep. These options will usually provide a satisfactory prep, unless you have a problem with constipation.
@@MarkCooperMD So what do you do if you have a problem with constipation? I know I wasn't finished up to the time I was scheduled, and almost went in the car. It was very embarrassing... then doc said I wasn't cleaned out enough! But I followed instructions.
I’m late 60’s and have had 3-4 colonoscopies so far. They’ve found polyps every single time, always small and benign thus far. I have no issues with the prep and do not mind it. I just eat light for a few days before prep day and I always use a Poweraide/Miralax prep. The biggest issue for me is coordinating an appointment that works for both me and whichever driver I’m able to find. At this point I’m sure I’ll continue having them well into my 80’s or farther unless something makes them a greater risk than not having them.
I had mine today in Malaysia. It was ridiculously easy and I got a recording of it after. The doctor removed one polyp and there was a lot of foam in there. I woke up towards the end of it and didn’t have any pain or side effects. It was super easy and I have no fear of it in the future. He said to do another one in five years. I am 44 now. He gave me some medicine called meteospasmyl for bloating. It still doesn’t explain why I eat a lot and don’t go to the bathroom hardly. He was saying that it’s because my colon isn’t contracting and moving the excretory along. Overall, a very positive experience.
Thanks for sharing!
Positive experience???
Your parastalses action is sluggish. Try a digestive enzyme and pineapple is good for that
Hello I was reading ur message it's almost like me I don't hardly go either my colon is obstruction Dr said my colon isn't working well anymore but I gotta start thinking about removing part of my colon because of this I'm always bloated and swollen stomach constantly but didn't get surgery yet scared as heck Dr said if I get the surgery I'll be wearing a bag 😭😭😭 Im 55 years old plus central obstruction sleep apnea and adema swelling legs blind one eye asthma tumors and the list goes on 😢 just wanted to leave message didn't mean to bother you apologize just that caught my eye when I saw your message because you almost simler like me. You have a great day and night
Thank you. I just get the prep very chilled and chug it down.
I used miralax, in 4 green Gatorade bottles
For a prep...easy to take
@@kathleenking47I did the Miralax too but just used flavored water. I don’t like Gatorade.
I was 78 YO on my last colonoscopy. My last three tests showed nothing. My doctor said I can stop if I want to as I would probably die of old age before I developed cancer.
It will be about 5 years since my last colonoscopy later this spring, when I'll be 72. I hope to get one around that time, and then at least one more even if I have to pay the full cost myself. I had a couple polyps removed a couple colonoscopies ago, but the doctor performing it said that they were of a kind "that couldn't possibly become cancerous". My parents both lived to their 90s, and had their last colonoscopies during their early 80s. My maternal grandmother died of congestive heart failure at 72, but also had metastasized colon cancer--she had had severe constipation much of her life which was I suspect was a contributing factor.
Severe constipation isn’t believed to contribute to cancer.
It sounds like you had hyperplastic polyps on your prior colonoscopy which would suggest there’s not much value in you having one again in 5 years.
Sorry about your grandmother. It’s only a first degree relative having colon cancer that is considered a direct indication that you are at high risk.
@@MarkCooperMD Thanks. I've had one colonoscopy since those polyps were removed, and no others were found. The colonoscopy that revealed the polyps also revealed a couple diverticula, and the following one confirmed this. That worries me a bit--my mother ended up with acute diverticulitis, had surgery resulting in having a stoma, which was reversed later, but she lived almost an additional decade to age 95 although that process was certainly no fun for her.
I have a family history of colon cancer - maternal grandmother and uncle. I've been screened twice (age 57) and had polyps both times. I'll have another colonoscopy this fall. The doctor told me that I didn't get a good prep the last time, even though I followed the instructions to the letter. It certainly seemed on my end that all was clear. What do you think is the most effective prep method? I was prescribed two bottles of concentrate to mix with liquid and take several hours apart. It was very expensive, and I was quite disappointed it did work as it should have.
I had my last colonoscopy at age 76, in 2022. I've always had just a few polyps. They told me to come back in 5 years or so. I'm in super excellent health, so I think that I'm done with them.
I think that’s a perfectly rational choice. Most likely you will gain little by doing it again and you have more peace of mind with this choice then it’s clearly the best one for you.
That makes sense. You have to be aware of the risks and benefits as you get older.
I think I'm do soon. Had surgery 10 years ago for stage 2 colon cancer. I've had 2 more polyps removed. No one in my family has had this.
Please don’t go longer than 5 years and you’d be a good candidate to continue having colonoscopy past 75 as long as you’re otherwise in good health.
Thank you Doc for your info☺
Only 65 yo and never had colonoscopy. Will have it only if I notice some symptoms
I'm 73, and had my most recent scope in November. Found one polyp. 5 years before, only one polyp. And before that, maybe two polyps. Any farther back, I don't recall. Would have to have records pulled. None of the polyps were of any concern and were benign. I'm thinking about stopping any future tests, but will check with my internist at next month's wellness check.
Polyps are almost always benign. The significant thing is if they are adenomas, subtype, size. Screening after 75 is less clear cut because these polyps are benign and not themselves the concern. It’s their potential to transform into cancer. A process that typically takes more than 10 years.
@@MarkCooperMD Yes, I saw that part. Reading test results, one polyp in the sgmoid colon, removed by cold snare. It was an Adenomatous polyp. No cancer cells present. I have Pancolonic Diverticula. Recommended another screen in 5 years. If I don't croak first.
A recent publication on colonoscopy in later life estimated there was value for patients with a 12 yr life expectancy at the time of scoping. So if you have strong reason to imagine living to 90 then there may be benefit to follow through on doing another at 78.
I view the process of screening as trying to discover who are the people in that 5% of the population fated to develop colon cancer. I suspect those people are ones who have high risk lesions - polyps over a cm, numerous polyps, polyps with high risk pathology features (which are almost always those over a cm anyhow).
Thank you for your video and your active answers to questions, Dr. Cooper. I would like to have your suggestion if I should have a colonoscopy at 80. I had 3 colonoscopy exams. Each time my doctor found/removed 2 tiny polyps. My younger brother had colon cancer and later had a small section of his colon removed 22 years ago. He is still surviving.
Thanks for watching and sharing. With that family history and personal history I would try to avoid following your brothers date and continue with another so long as you’re in otherwise pretty good health. If you’re active and don’t have significant vascular disease you should do well and have a reasonable longevity to ultimately benefit. Just bear in mind there’s no real immediate benefit to having a small polyp removed - the benefit is a few years further down the road. You take the risk the day of the procedure for a benefit in an uncertain future.
My gramma was told she had hundreds of polyps with a colonoscopy she had, which was extremely painful, and made her baby like sleeping on the way home. It was hard for them to wake her from the anesthesia too. She didn’t have another, because they didn’t say she needed another. She was well over 75 when she had this one, and I do not believe they had ever offered her one before that.
Most people in my family die of cancer, usually colon kind.
She one day days before her 91st birthday went to the hospital, not having eaten much, throwing up, coughing out phlegm, and feeling tired. She had a hard stomach like a rock. Doctors tried to say it was pneumonia, just being fat even though it clearly was not fat, and wanted to test for anything else but cancer. I insisted, and they found cancer all through her intestines, and it killed her the next day.
I would like a preventative for colon cancer, one that made polyps never appear in anyone.
I had a screening colonoscopy at age 68. They found what were called Sessile polyps. I was told they are never malignant and no need for another for ten years.
Thank you. Helpful.
Yes, i last had a Colonoscopy in 2016 at age 72. I was clean, and now at almost 80, I won't have one again. I have heard that in most cases one does not need to have one again past 75. I would not undergo any serious treatments now😊
I would say - never. I had a colonoscopy 10 years ago and was so resistant to doing it when my doctor wanted me. I felt totally fine, ate super healthy, etc. Finally, I succumbed and dragged myself to the hospital. They found a polyp and two pre-cancerous adenomas. Go figure. Now I am glad I did!
My dad died at 79 from colon cancer, as did his dad. I have routinely gotten checked since I was about 45 years old. I never had polyps, though my brothers have. But once the gastroenterologist removed "white spots" from my colon wall. He said they may not have turned into polyps, but he removed them because they don't belong there.
My mother died at 92 from Parkinson's and Lewy Body dementia. During a hospital stay near the end, the doctor told me that my mom had blood in her stool. I wanted to know if she wound up with colon cancer too, but since she was in no condition to treat it, the doctor didn't want to test further. So I may have it on my mother's side also. I guess that means I should continue testing into my 80s, correct?
My first was about 19 years ago; 8 benign polyps.. I thought it was pretty cool. Got to watch the action on the monitor. My next is in 3 weeks. Just making sure before I retire.
Never had a colonoscopy, did have a barium enema at forty. Found no polyps. Now 66, get yearly faecal blood tests, always negative. Wife is a GP, she thinks that's enough, don't really need a colonoscopy, and I'm highly resistant to it
Yearly FIT is reasonable. Based on spelling and use of term GP I will guess you’re in UK?
I had a colonoscopy aged 55. I had to call it off before they finished. Never have I felt such pain, including a massively broken leg and kidney stones.
Something is going to kill me, but I don't want advanced notice of it.
Therefore I have signed off the NHS Colon Cancer Screening scheme.
I just hope I get to seventy, and the world is such a mess that this ambition may not be achieved even if not the result of natural causes or disease ...
Best wishes from George in UK [aged 62].
First colonoscopy was about age 52. I had one polyp. The doctor said it was the largest he’d ever seen in his career…. As big as his thumb. Pathology should positive for cancer in the cap but luckily it had not spread down the stalk yet and into the colon wall. He said it was a lifesaving procedure for me. He said about 6 month later I would have had to have a portion of my colon removed. I will encourage everyone to get a colonoscopy at 45 and every 5 years minimum! The prep is really not all that bad.
I have heard it said many times here in America that colonoscopies are the goose that laid the golden egg for gastroenterologists
Yes in America it’s consistent across all industries that if you do something of immense value it tends to be rewarded commensurate with the value created.
Cancer is the golden goose for oncologists.
wataboutya9310 When I went for mine it was like an assembly line only instead of “standing room only,” it was “lying on a gurney room only.”
I think the biggest problem with noninvasive screening has to do with how insurance pays for it. I was told that if I did the noninvasive screening and it came up suspicious then I would, on my high deductible insurance policy, have to pay for the resulting colonoscopy. While if I just had the colonoscopy that would be free and I would only have to pay for any pathology labs done. Absurd to put anyone in that position! Why would you ever do the initial noninvasive testing!
Now 3 colonoscopies in I’ve got the kinks worked out. But I still hate insurance.
I heard the same thing and I’m not about to have to fork out $2000. They advertise that poop in a can as it is less evasive but like you said - if it comes back suspicious your stuck with the bill !
Hey Dr Cooper, l enjoyed your video.
I had my 1st at age 50 and a few months. They found three with one being a sessile polyp. They said come back in three years. Had an opportunity from another surgery to get another colonoscopy at 21 months. They found a 4mm polyp this time. They still are saying come back in three years. I seem to like the two year mark for the next one. What do you think?
I usually reset the clock if I was able to complete a good exam with good prep. So if I only found one polyp after two years I’d consider the patient is good to go for 5 years. However the size of the initial polyps weighs into the consideration. Generally polyps are slow growing and common. The few that are large and have more aggressive histology are distinct from the run of the mill type. Ultimately I’d need more information to make a recommendation that differs from the advice you already received. Thanks!
My 82 yr old mom and I had our colonoscopies the same day.
Mine, as usual was all clear.
Unfortunately hers came back as early stage colon cancer.😔.
She was able to have 10” of her colon removed robotically and did not require chemotherapy!!!
She is now 88 and doing well.🙂 2:50
Thanks for the information
I had a colonoscopy at 50,60 and 70 with several FIT tests all came back negative. My PCP said that I don't need any more colonoscopies. On the chemo and radiation treatments, my sister at 60 had stage 4 ovarian cancer. She had one chemo treatment and stopped the Doctors gave her 6 months to live with treatments. She lived 1 and half years without treatments and was Hospices longest living patient at the time. She said the chemo was so bad she would rather be dead.
Had my 1st colonoscopy at 56 and had 1 polyp removed. Had a follow-up colonoscopy 5 yrs later only to find I had stage 3 colon cancer, followed by surgery removing about half my colon plus 6 months of tough chemo. It's now 13 yrs later, and I'm down to a colonoscopy every 3 yrs. Otherwise healthy, thanks to excellent medical care.
Unfortunately people are still dying from colon cancer. All they had to do was have a colonoscopy and they probably would have lived. The results of my last colonoscopy were zero polyps. I don't mind the colonoscopy; I still hate the prep.
The volume is extremely low. I normally watch at volume 10, but had to increase the volume to 22 and it was still soft.
It’s refreshing to see a pragmatic discussion of this topic.
It is difficult for most people to view their own health history and future so pragmatically, but the truth is we are all going to die of something one day or another, and if a few colonoscopies over a few decades have revealed no polyps, or only one of a small size and non-threatening type, it is a reasonable bet that this is not the thing that’s going to kill you. Time to focus on the things more pertinent to your own risks, based on personal or family history.
One of the things that contributes to over-prescription of colonoscopies is the high mobility of people today, and the breakdown of the “regular” private or family physician. Practitioners will see the colonoscopy as a low-cost insurance against a risk that can be devastating, and is avoidable with early diagnostics. But in today’s world, where most people never see the same doctor for more than two consecutive years, YOU become the guarantor of your own healthcare future.
This type of analytic pragmatism can go a long way toward preventing you from spending significant amounts of time and expense on procedures you’ve already repeated multiple times, and allow you to focus on where the real risks lie for you.
Thank you for sharing. Your comments were highly satisfying to read. And you’ve hit the nail on the head for one of the big reasons I spend my time making these videos.
My mother had colon cancer. She is a survivor. I've had routine colonoscopy's and never had any polyps until the last colonoscopy where I had three and one was large. Dang! Now I will have a screening every 5 years and am due again this year. I will be 70. Better safe than sorry!
If you had three polyps, a large polyp those are two reasons to follow in three years and with family history of a first degree relative 5 is recommended otherwise. Thanks for sharing.
@@MarkCooperMD Thank you. Nobody told me that.
Thoughts on the ColoVantage/ Epi ProColon CRC screening test?
Great info.
My first colonoscopy there was one polyp and since then I've had a total of 6 colonoscopies with no more polyps found. I'll be due for another colonoscopy in a year or 2 and having lost a coworker (and friend) to colon cancer just before I retired I'm actually looking forward to it.
I had one about 8-10 yrs.ago. The doctor did not give me ANYTHING for
pain or stress. He removed 2 polyps & said to return in 2yrs., but I never
went back bc I can't go through that again. My husband was out for his.
That many years back sedation was different. Nowadays I would expect you would have a better experience.