Some people go for colonoscopy every year or every two years, but is it really necessary? Some people may ask: "It's okay for me to have a colonoscopy the next year before, but my bowel movements have changed recently. Will I develop colon cancer during this period? Isn't it said that if my bowel habits have changed, I need to be alert?" So how often does it take to have a colonoscopy?
Actually, the government currently launched the "Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme" currently launched by the government mainly targets Hong Kong residents aged 50 to 75 and asymptomatic to receive screening services in the private sector to avoid colorectal cancer. However, since colorectal cancer has a trend of getting younger, high-risk groups such as people with poor eating habits (such as eating red meat, processed meat, etc.) and those with metabolic syndrome should be examined at the age of 40 or earlier, as compared to people with a family history of colorectal cancer.
As for the frequency of inspections, there are different recommendations in different situations:
- If an adenomatous polyp with villous changes is found in the firstColonoscopy; or if there are adenomatous polyps of more than 1 cm; or if more than 3 adenomatous polyps are found at one time, these patients are at high risk, and it is recommended to have another examination after one year;
- If there are only 1-2 small adenomatous polyps less than 1 cm, it is recommended to have a colonoscopy every 1-3 years;
- If there are no abnormalities in the examination, an examination can be performed every 3-5 years.
In addition, the frequency of colonoscopy is also related to the degree of bowel cleansing. The cleaner the bowel is cleansed, the more complete the doctor can see the entire colon. If the bowel is not cleansed and the polyps are hidden under the feces, the doctor cannot check clearly, and the accuracy of the examination will naturally decrease. Therefore, you should follow the doctor's instructions for bowel cleansing before colonoscopy.
Therefore, it is recommended that after the first colonoscopy, you ask the doctor about the test results. You need to know your risk level before you know how long it will take to have the next test.
Men are often busy with their careers and families and neglect their health. This Father's Day, let us take practical actions to thank our father for his hard work and take the initiative to care for his health! This year, give your dad a physical checkup as a heartwarming and considerate Father’s Day gift!
RegularGastroscopy (OGD)Regular
The above information is for reference only. Consult your doctor if you have any doubt.
Source: Department of Health, Academic Foundation for Liver Disease Prevention and Treatment
