A new study raises the question whether some people can wait longer than the recommended 10years to repeat a colonoscopy after a negative initial screening for colorectal cancer.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure in which a doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end (called a colonoscope) to examine the inside of a person’s colon (large intestine) and rectum. The procedure is typically done to look for signs of colon cancer, polyps (small growths), or other abnormalities. It can also be used to diagnose and treat certain conditions, such as bleeding or inflammation. The procedure is usually performed under sedation and typically takes 30 minutes to an hour to complete.