I have a family history of colon cancer. I am 34 and I had colonoscopy 3 years ago. When should I repeat it?
Cancer - 5 Answers
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1 :
Best advice can only come from your doc, as he/she is only one that knows the specifics of your family history (sibling, parent, grandparent, cousin) as well as details of your colo-rectal functions (often have blood in stool; do not empty bowels on regular basis; etc.). IIt also depends on what the colonoscopy showed.
2 :
For the higher risk individual the American Cancer Society and most specialists recommend that you have an initial colonoscopy at age 40 or when you are 10 years younger than the relative or family member who has already been diagnosed. After the initial, repeat every 5 years.
3 :
Colonoscopy should be done on all adults over 50. With a family history sooner. Since my mother died of colon cancer, I now get one every 3 years. That is my doctor;s recommendation.
4 :
They suggest every 5 years for regular risk, every 3 for increased risk patients. Also, they suggest getting a fecal occult blood test done every few years too - this just entails taking a sample into your doc.
5 :
If you had 2 or more close relatives with colon cancer and have been advised a regular colonoscopy, then every 3 years colonoscopy is advised and fecal occult blood test should be done 6monthly to annually. If required and available test for HNPCC associated mutations should also be carried out. In case the genetic test is positive prophylactic colectomy can be considered.
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