Talking Points Preparation for colonoscopy is relatively extensive and may include enemas and a powerful laxative. The test itself is generally well tolerated because sedation is routinely, although not invariably, used. People frequently find the preparation worse than the test. Because of its high accuracy for the detection of polyps and cancer of any size, and the long natural history of colorectal cancer, the test needs to be performed every 10 years. Provider capacity to provide screening colonoscopy is currently unknown but being evaluated.
Specialized training is required.
In some settings, primary care clinicians may have a disincentive to order the test because it will generate a specialist referral. As with any of the other screening tests, if a large lesion is discovered, a colorectal surgeon may need to be consulted. For a negative exam, a screening colonoscopy should be repeated in 10 years. United States Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Division of Cancer Prevention and Control Links to non-Federal organizations found at this site are provided solely as a service to our users. These links do not constitute an endorsement of these organizations or their programs by CDC or the Federal Government, and none should be inferred.