If you put off scheduling a colonoscopy, you’re not alone. It’s easy to find excuses — too busy, too uncomfortable, too much hassle. But here’s the truth: colorectal cancer doesn’t wait. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, over 150,000 Americans will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The good news? A simple screening could stop cancer before it starts.
“Screenings are important because you can catch any polyps early, preventing them from becoming cancer,” says Chike Anusionwu, MD, a Gastroenterologist at St. Elizabeth Healthcare. “Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you should get screened for colorectal cancer.”
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools for colorectal cancer prevention. The procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the colon. It detects colon polyps, tumors or other abnormalities. If we find polyps, we can often remove them immediately. This greatly reduces the risk of colorectal cancer.
“Many people are afraid of the prep, but advances in medicine have made it much easier to tolerate,” says Dr. Anusionwu. “A little discomfort now is worth it to protect your health in the long run.”
When Should You Get a Colonoscopy?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults between the ages of 45 and 75 undergo regular colorectal cancer screenings. However, if you have risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease or a history of colon polyps, your doctor may recommend earlier or more frequent screenings.
“Historically, we diagnose colorectal cancer in patients 50 and older,” says Dr. Anusionwu. “Now, about 10% of newly diagnosed colorectal cancers occur in people younger than 50 years old.”
What Are the Colorectal Cancer Screening Options?
When it comes to screening, a colonoscopy is the gold standard. However, a colonoscopy isn’t the only screening option. If you’re looking for an alternative, here are a few additional choices:
Stool Tests – At-home stool tests like the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or a stool DNA test (Cologuard) detect hidden blood or abnormal DNA in the stool. These tests are noninvasive but you need to repeat them more frequently — every one to three years. If this test produces abnormal results, we will recommend a colonoscopy.
Virtual Colonoscopy (CT Colonography) – A specialized CT scan creates a detailed view of the colon and rectum without the use of a scope. It is best for low-risk patients, but we’ll recommend a follow-up colonoscopy if we find any abnormalities.
“Some patients prefer less invasive options, and that’s okay,” says Dr. Anusionwu. “The most important thing is to get screened — however that looks for you. Screening can give you peace of mind; if we find something, we have the tools to treat it early.”
Understanding Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors
Certain factors increase your likelihood of developing colorectal cancer. These include:
- A family history of colorectal cancer.
- Age, race and ethnic background.
- Chronic conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
- Inherited conditions such as Lynch syndrome.
- Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, obesity, smoking and alcohol use.
- Type 2 diabetes.
“Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers,” says Dr. Anusionwu. “If you understand your risk and take action early, it can make all the difference.”
Schedule Your Colonoscopy Today
A colonoscopy isn’t just another medical test — it’s a lifesaving screening. If you’re due for a screening, don’t wait.
Call (866) 492-5211 to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified gastroenterologists. Self-referrals do not need preauthorization.
St. Elizabeth offers colonoscopy services at six convenient gastroenterology locations: Crestview Hills, Edgewood, Florence, Ft. Thomas, Grant, Williamstown and Dearborn.
