Colonoscopy at certain age?

Hello @dunbun13, I just had what I think may be my last colonoscopy at age 82. I also had one in 2022 and was nervous about having this last one due to the problems I had with the previous procedure. This time I did an extended preparation and the colonoscopy went smoothly. I also had anesthesia and went out like a light and woke up shortly after the procedure feeling very good. I think it is pretty normal to be nervous when we get a little older.

Thank you so much, I am feeling a little better about it after your comments. I so appreciate all the information I get through here.
Thanks again

I have had precancerous polyps in the past so I was told to do another one in 5 years when I would be 82. I did a consult at Mayo first to see if I should go ahead with it given my age and my lung and breathing issues (safety for general anesthesia). They said yes and I had it and I am glad I did because they removed 3 precancerous polyps 2, 10 and 12 mm (the most and the largest I have every had at one time). They told me to repeat in 3 years when I will be 85!

Thank you for sharing!

I had my second colonoscopy about a year ago, which was 5 years after the first one was done. I was given the all clear, and told I wouldn't need another one for 10 years. By then, I'll be 75 and wonder if it'll be necessary at that point. Assuming I live that long.

I believe that it’s a personal decision based upon your family history or your own health history.

The last colonoscopy I had was when I was in my 60's. They just told me that I would never have to have another one. I wasn't about to argue. They aren't that fun! I am currently 79 and everything is fine. I'm not sure how they make that determination. It probably depends on your previous results. I was very concerned about this last colonoscopy because they changed the medication that you take before you have the procedure. I read the side effects of the medication and one of them was death. So, I didn't take the medication they wanted me to even though I had already paid for it. I just used my mom's home remedy of baking soda and water. That cleans you out very well! The procedure was fine and they found no polyps or anything. There are some good things about getting older; no more colonoscopies and no more pap smears!
PML

Thanks so much, yes I am hoping the Dr does not suggest one, but since Colitis has worsened I think they will probably recommend one.
Thanks for sharing.

The National Cancer Institute has an article you might be interested in that directly addresses colonoscopy and age:

- Should People Over Age 75 Be Screened for Colorectal Cancer? https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2021/colorectal-cancer-screening-people-older-than-75

I know two women who lost their husbands to colon cancer - both had not been screened.