The scope is inserted into the rectum to view the lower part of the colon. If the doctor sees no signs of disease, the person should return for an FOBT every year and a flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years. If the FOBT test is positive or the patient is in the moderate or high-risk category, colonoscopy is the procedure of choice. The colonoscope is sufficiently long to see the lining of the entire colon. If the entire colon is negative for polyps, a repeat colonoscopy is not considered necessary for 10 years.
Studies are underway to validate that flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are beneficial.
As Medicare has begun to cover screening procedures, other insurers have followed suit. Now many plans will allow colonoscopy to screen patients with a family history. Detection of blood in the stool requires colonoscopic investigation. My Personal Favorite Screening Exam Colonoscopy is my favorite. Best of all, if the test is negative, you don't have to check again for 10 years.