The Importance of Regular Screenings: How Colonoscopy Saves Lives
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women, yet it remains one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when caught early. In fact, regular colorectal cancer screening via colonoscopy can reduce the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer through early detection and removal of precancerous growths.
While the idea of undergoing a life-saving colonoscopy may feel daunting, the procedure itself is straightforward, safe, and remarkably effective. At Core Surgery, under the expert care of Dr Vasant Rajan, we believe that understanding the importance of regular screenings empowers you to take control of your health and dramatically improves long-term outcomes.
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is an outpatient procedure that allows a specialist to examine the entire lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum) using a flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope. During the examination, Dr Rajan can visualise and remove polyps and pre-cancerous lesions before they develop into invasive cancer. The colonoscope also enables biopsy of any suspicious areas, giving a definitive diagnosis.
Common misconceptions around colonoscopies include fears of pain or complications. In reality, patients receive sedation to ensure comfort, and the risk of serious complications—such as bleeding or perforation—is extremely low (less than 1 in 1000 procedures). Preparation involves a clear-fluid diet and gentle bowel-cleansing solution the day before, but modern regimens and split-dose preparations have made bowel prep much more tolerable.
Why Regular Screenings Matter
When colorectal cancer is identified at an early stage, the five-year survival rate increases. Preventing colorectal cancer by removing polyps during colonoscopy could stop cancer from ever developing.
Colonoscopy guidelines emphasise that catching cancer early often means less invasive treatments—sometimes avoiding chemotherapy, extensive surgery, or stomas altogether. Patients enjoy shorter recovery times, fewer side effects, and better quality of life. Regular screenings also provide reassurance; a clean exam result means you can often wait five to ten years until your next procedure, reducing both anxiety and medical visits.
When to Get a Colonoscopy
Current colonoscopy guidelines recommend that average-risk adults begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. If you have an immediate family member (parent, sibling, or child) diagnosed with colorectal cancer, or if you have other risk factors—such as inflammatory bowel disease, certain genetic syndromes, or a history of radiation to the abdomen—you should discuss when to get a colonoscopy with your healthcare provider, often starting earlier and screening more frequently.
For average-risk individuals with a normal colonoscopy, the next screening is typically in 10 years. If small polyps are found and removed, follow-up may be every five years; if more polyps or suspicious polyps are detected, your doctor might recommend re-screening in three years or sooner. While a colonoscopy is the gold standard, alternative screening methods—like faecal immunochemical tests (FIT) or CT colonography—can be appropriate for some patients. However, any positive non-invasive test should be followed by a colonoscopy to confirm and address findings.
Overcoming Barriers to Screening
Fear and embarrassment are among the most common barriers to live-saving colonoscopy, yet modern techniques and compassionate care have minimised discomfort and drama. Sedation ensures a painless experience, and privacy is strictly maintained. Most private health insurance and Medicare cover screenings for preventing colorectal cancer with no out-of-pocket cost, making this critical service easily accessible.
Putting off your colonoscopy “until next year” can mean missing the window for detecting early, treatable lesions. Remember: preparation takes just a day, the procedure around 30 minutes, and the benefits last a lifetime. At Core Surgery, our team strives to create a welcoming environment to answer your questions, and tailor prep instructions to your lifestyle.
Regular colonoscopies are not just another medical appointment—they are a life-saving tool that can detect early colorectal cancer or prevent it altogether by removing precancerous polyps. By following colonoscopy guidelines and understanding the importance of regular screenings, you can significantly lower your risk of colorectal cancer and ensure that if cancer does develop, it’s caught at the most treatable stage.
Talk to Dr Vasant Rajan at Core Surgery about your personal risk factors and establish a screening schedule that’s right for you. Don’t wait—schedule your colonoscopy today and take a proactive step towards a healthier future.