Screening for colorectal cancer is used to detect the disease at an early stage. According to the American Cancer Society, it is recommended from age 45 up to 75.
After 75, it is no longer a standard recommendation. Instead, it depends on the individual’s overall health and medical history, writes News Wise.
However, many older adults with previous precancerous conditions are still offered follow-up examinations.
Risks associated with procedures
A colonoscopy often requires sedation. For older adults, this can increase the risk of complications.
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At the same time, many people over 75 have other medical conditions that may be more serious.
It is therefore important to consider whether the procedure provides real value.
Physicians must take into account both the risks of the procedure and the patient’s overall health.
New findings
A study published in JAMA examined adults over 75 who had previously undergone colonoscopies.
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The aim was to determine whether continued screening offers a clear benefit.
The results show that the risk of developing colorectal cancer in this group is low. At the same time, the risk of dying from other diseases is higher.
This means that continued colonoscopies do not always provide the expected benefit for older patients.
The decision should therefore be made on an individual basis in consultation with a physician.
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Sources: News Wise, American Cancer Society, and JAMA.
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This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.