1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Cancer

Colonoscopy

By Lisa Fayed, About.com

Updated: May 25, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

A.D.A.M. Health Encyclopedia
Definition: The medical examination of the colon using a colonoscope. A colonoscopy is performed as a screening tool for colon cancer, and is often performed to remove colon polyps. A biopsy can also be done during the procedure.
Pronunciation: koh-luh-NAHS-kuh-pee
Examples: It is recommended that everyone have a colonoscopy every ten years beginning at age 50.
Explore Cancer
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Cancer
  4. Cancer Basics
  5. Cancer Glossary
  6. Colonoscopy

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.