Starting at age 45, how often is colonoscopy recommended for average-risk individuals?

Starting at age 45, how often is colonoscopy recommended for average-risk individuals?

• A. Every 5 years starting at 40
• B. Every 10 years starting at 45
• C. Every year starting at 50
• D. Every 2 years starting at 35

Answer: (B)

Starting at age 45, the screening interval with colonoscopy for average-risk individuals is every 10 years, assuming a normal initial exam. This long interval works because colonoscopy can both detect and remove polyps in one procedure, interrupting potential cancer development. If no polyps are found, the risk remains low for about a decade, so repeating the test sooner isn’t necessary and would add unnecessary risks and costs. The move to start at 45 reflects updated guidelines recognizing higher colorectal cancer incidence in younger adults. If polyps are found, the interval is shortened and tailored to the specific findings, but a normal result supports a 10-year gap.

Starting at age 45, the screening interval with colonoscopy for average-risk individuals is every 10 years, assuming a normal initial exam. This long interval works because colonoscopy can both detect and remove polyps in one procedure, interrupting potential cancer development. If no polyps are found, the risk remains low for about a decade, so repeating the test sooner isn’t necessary and would add unnecessary risks and costs. The move to start at 45 reflects updated guidelines recognizing higher colorectal cancer incidence in younger adults. If polyps are found, the interval is shortened and tailored to the specific findings, but a normal result supports a 10-year gap.