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Dubuque, Iowa, March 3, 2025 – Screening for colorectal cancer can save your life. Sixty percent of deaths from colorectal cancer could be avoided with proper screening. 

Unfortunately, some people allow the myths surrounding a colonoscopy to keep them from being proactive and getting screened for colorectal cancer. MercyOne Genesis is here to give you the facts on preventing the second-leading cancer killer from prep to polyps.

FACTS about Colonoscopy:  

• Removes polyps before they become cancerous. 

• It can prevent 60% of colorectal cancer deaths. 

• It’s not painful - sedation eliminates any discomfort. 

• It’s still the gold standard for screening. 

• The prep isn’t so bad – the taste has improved, and you drink less. 

• Get screened at 45 or earlier if you have risk factors. 

Are you putting off a colonoscopy? 

 Don’t believe the myths and get back on track. 

Myth: I don’t need a colonoscopy until I have symptoms. 

Fact: Early colorectal cancers usually have no symptoms.  Symptoms typically don’t appear until the cancer has grown or spread. 

Myth: A colonoscopy won’t prevent colon cancer. 

Fact: All colorectal cancers start as pre-cancerous polyps or small growths in the colon or rectum.  If polyps are found during the colonoscopy, they can be removed before they become cancerous. 

Myth: Younger adults can’t get colorectal cancer. 

Fact: There’s been an increase in the number of younger adults getting colorectal cancer. Those at average risk should get their first colonoscopy at age 45 or younger if they have a family history. 

Myth: I’m a woman and less likely to get colorectal cancer. 

Fact:  Colorectal cancer equally affects men and women.  It’s the second leading cause of cancer death for both. 

Myth: I’m not at risk for colorectal cancer. 

Fact: If you have a colon, you’re at risk. Sixty percent of deaths from colorectal cancer could be avoided with proper screening. 

Myth: A colonoscopy is painful. 

Fact: Sedation is used during the procedure to eliminate any discomfort. Most patients don’t even remember the short procedure. 

Myth: The bowel prep is horrible. 

Fact: Today’s prep tastes much better, and you drink a lower amount of it. The prep drink (a mix of a laxative and a clear sports drink) strips away any residual stool from the colon. 

REMEMBER:  

Believe the facts, colonoscopies save lives. Talk to your primary care provider about when you should get screened.

MEDIA NOTES:

I would be happy to set up an interview with one of our gastroenterologists to discuss colorectal cancer and the importance of screening.