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Colorectal Diseases

When to schedule

04/05/2004

Question:

I am the youngest of 6 kids. Our father died of colon cancer at age 64. I recently turned 40 and was advised by my MD to get a colonoscopy. I asked and NONE of my other siblings (who are all older than 40, some by 12 years) have been advised to get a colonoscopy.

I do plan to follow my MDs advice, but why such a disparity?

Answer:

Your doctor is absolutely correct- you should be screened this year, and your siblings should be screened as well- they are already a few years behind. Perhaps your siblings` physicians are not aware of the current recommendations for screening in those with a family history. We have a lot of work to do, educating physicians and patients alike! It starts with well-thought out questions from those like you. Congratulations! 

For more information:

Go to the Colorectal Diseases health topic, where you can:

Response by:

University of Cincinnati Janice Frederick Rafferty, MD
Professor of Surgery
Chief of Colorectal Surgery Division
Division of Colorectal Surgery
Department of Surgery
College of Medicine
University of Cincinnati
Janice Frederick Rafferty, MD