Colonoscopy May Not Benefit Older Seniors

A recent report published in the Journal of American Medicine says that seniors in their 80's and 90's may not need to have a colposcopy performed, citing the risks outweight the benefits.

A colonoscopy is the best screening method we have for colon cancer. However, researchers say that older seniors are more likely to die of other causes, even if colon cancer is detected.

Current colon cancer screening guidelines suggest a colonoscopy at age 50 and every 10 years after. There are no set guidelines when a person no longer needs to have a colonoscopy. Considering older seniors face a higher rate of complication from a colonoscopy, it is important for a guideline to be set. In fact, because a colonoscopy is invasive, many times the procedure cannot be completed in older adults. Plus, with the average cost of a colonoscopy being $500, many Medicare dollars could be spared.

Suggested Reading:

• Colon Cancer Overview
  
• Colon Cancer Symptoms
  
• Colon Cancer Screening Guidelines

_{Photo courtesy of A.D.A.M. Health Encyclopedia}