How Often Should You Get a Colonoscopy After a Normal Result? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

More Info

---

After undergoing your first colonoscopy with normal results, the general recommendation for follow-up screenings can vary based on several factors, including your age, family history of colorectal cancer, and any personal health issues. For most individuals, if the initial colonoscopy shows no abnormalities and you are at average risk for colorectal cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends that you have your next colonoscopy in 10 years.
However, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, or if you have certain risk factors such as inflammatory bowel disease, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings. For example, individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer may need to start screening earlier, often around 10 years before the age at which their relative was diagnosed, or at age 40, whichever comes first. In such cases, follow-up colonoscopies may be recommended every 5 years or even sooner, depending on the findings.

It’s also important to consider the type of polyps that may have been found during any previous screenings. If you had adenomatous polyps (which have the potential to become cancerous), your doctor might suggest more frequent surveillance. For instance, if you had one or two small adenomatous polyps, a follow-up colonoscopy might be recommended in 5 to 10 years. If you had three or more polyps, or if they were larger than 1 cm, the recommendation could be for a follow-up in 3 years.

In addition to these guidelines, your personal health and lifestyle factors should also be taken into account. If you have symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or blood in your stool, you should consult your doctor regardless of when your last colonoscopy was performed.

It's also worth noting that while colonoscopy is a highly effective screening tool for colorectal cancer, there are alternative screening methods available, such as stool-based tests (like FIT or Cologuard) that can be done annually or every few years, depending on the test. However, if any of these tests return positive results, a colonoscopy will be necessary for further evaluation.

In summary, if your first colonoscopy was normal and you are at average risk, you can generally expect to wait 10 years for your next one. However, always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best screening schedule for your specific situation, taking into account your personal and family medical history. Regular communication with your doctor is key to maintaining your health and ensuring timely screenings.