After hearing all the commotion about colonoscopy prep, you may be glad to hear routine colon cancer screenings don’t start until age 45. A colonoscopy may be required sooner though if you are experiencing certain symptom.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is commonly known as the gold standard for colon cancer screening. The procedure involves inserting a scope with a camera into your anus to view the rectum and colon. To minimize discomfort during the screening, you will be given anesthesia.

“A colonoscopy allows us to not only visualize the entire colon for any abnormalities but also lets us address and intervene on any issue we see while we have access to the area, like removing a polyp,” explains Dr. Jeffrey Brasky, a gastroenterologist at Advocate Health Care.

Prior to the colonoscopy, you’ll be required to follow preparation procedures to ensure your doctor can clearly view your rectum and colon. Colonoscopy preparationincludes following a low fiber diet, drinking clear liquids and taking an oral laxative concoction.

Why would you need a colonoscopy before age 45?

“Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy before you hit the preventive screening age if you are experiencing symptoms that may be suggestive of colon cancer or another gastrointestinal condition,” Dr. Brasky says.

Symptoms that may warrant a colonoscopy include:

• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Unexpected weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Changes in bowel habits
• Iron deficiency anemia

You may also need a colonoscopy before 45 years old if you have a family history of colon cancer.

What conditions use a colonoscopy to assist with a diagnosis and treatment plan?

Besides colon cancer, colonoscopies can help your health care provider diagnose and develop treatment plans for other gastrointestinal conditions, including:

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a chronic, autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakes and attacks the gastrointestinal tract. This causes inflammation and eventually scarring. IBD includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
• Stricture or narrowing in the colon, which can be caused by scarring or a tumor.
• Altered bowel habits, such as chronic diarrhea or constipation.
• Diverticulitis, a condition where abnormal pouches form in the colon wall and become inflamed.

“Colonoscopy results are just one aspect doctors look at when diagnosing gastrointestinal conditions,” Dr. Brasky explains. “Your doctor will first look at your personal health and family history, review your symptoms, perform a physical exam and may order imaging, if warranted.”

Want to learn more about your risk for colorectal cancer? Take a free online quiz.