Fact vs. Fiction: MercyOne Debunks the Myths Surrounding Colonoscopies

Screening for colorectal cancer can save your life. Sixty percent of deaths from colorectal cancer could be avoided with proper screening.

Unfortunately, some allow the myths surrounding a colonoscopy to keep them from being proactive and getting screened for colorectal cancer. MercyOne is here to give you the facts on preventing the second-leading cancer killer from prep to polyps.

FACTS about Colonoscopy:

• Can remove polyps before they become cancerous.
• Can prevent 60% of colorectal cancer deaths.
• It’s not painful - sedation eliminates any discomfort.
• It’s still the gold standard for screening.
• The prep isn’t so bad – the taste has improved, and you drink less.
• Get screened at 45 or earlier if you have risk factors.

Are you putting off a colonoscopy?

Don’t believe the myths and get back on track.

Myth: I don’t need a colonoscopy until I have symptoms.
Fact: Early colorectal cancers usually have no symptoms. Symptoms typically don’t appear until the cancer has grown or spread.

Myth: A colonoscopy won’t prevent colon cancer.
Fact: All colorectal cancers start as pre-cancerous polyps, or small growths in the colon or rectum. If polyps are found during the colonoscopy, they can be removed before they become cancerous.

Myth: Younger adults can’t get colorectal cancer.
Fact: There’s been an increase in the number of younger adults getting colorectal cancer. Those at average risk should get their first colonoscopy at age 45 or younger if they have a family history.

Myth: I’m a woman and less likely to get colorectal cancer.
Fact: Colorectal cancer equally affects men and women. It’s the second leading cause of cancer death for both.

Myth: I’m not at risk for colorectal cancer.
Fact: If you have a colon, you’re at risk. Sixty percent of deaths from colorectal cancer could be avoided with proper screening.

Myth: A colonoscopy is painful.
Fact: Sedation is used during the procedure to eliminate any discomfort. Most patients don’t even remember the short procedure.

Myth: The bowel prep is horrible.
Fact: Today’s prep tastes much better, and you drink a smaller amount of it. The prep drink (a mix of a laxative and a clear sports drink) strips away any residual stool from the colon.

REMEMBER:
Believe the facts, colonoscopies save lives. Talk to your primary care provider about when you should get screened.