Colonoscopy is often the butt of medical jokes – but why does it get a bad rap? Colonoscopy is a superhero of colon cancer prevention, doing double-duty by both detecting and removing precancerous polyps.
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and it has a 90% 5-year survival rate when it’s found in early stages before it spreads.
Available to debunk some common excuses for avoiding a colonoscopy are MDsave experts who can help consumers make informed choices about their health.
Excuse #1: I heard colonoscopies are painful.
The Truth: Today, most colonoscopies are performed under sedation, and most of the time, you won’t even remember the procedure.
Excuse #2: I don’t know if I can handle the prep.
The Truth: The bowel cleanse to prepare for a colonoscopy is easier now than it’s ever been. Instead of drinking a gallon of prep in one go, there are now half-gallon options. Some doctors will also order a split dose, so you can drink half the night before your procedure and half in the morning.
Excuse #3: I don’t have a family history of colon cancer, so I’m not at risk.
The Truth: 1 in 18 Americans are diagnosed with colon cancer. Some risk factors mean you should talk to your doctor about getting screened sooner, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (e.g., Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative Colitis) or Lynch Syndrome.
Excuse #4: I’m too young to get colon cancer.
The Truth: While rates of colon cancer are falling in the 50+ crowd, they’re on the rise in young adults. Researchers speculate that higher rates of obesity may be a factor. To reduce your risk, keep your weight in a healthy range and ask about any colon cancer or other risk factors in your family. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms: Rectal bleeding, changes in stool color or size, change in bowel habits, Colon or rectal pain
Excuse #5: I can’t afford a colonoscopy.
The Truth: There are solutions out there like MDsave. Their pre-negotiated rates are about 40-60% lower than the national average cost, with trusted local doctors across the country. A colonoscopy National Average Price: $3,772. MDsave Average Price: $1,647
Excuse #6: It’s easier to just send my stool in the mail
The Truth: Agreeing to that cheaper, easier DNA screening for colorectal cancer can cost consumers much more in the end. Because if that test comes back positive, some insurers and Medicare stop coverage as a preventive service towards a colonoscopy that your doctor will inevitably order next.
MDsave is the world’s first healthcare online marketplace with completely transparent pricing – meaning the price seen up front is the only price consumers will pay. No surprise bills. Similar to booking a flight or hotel, MDsave allows users to search, compare, and buy right online by adding the needed test/procedure right to the cart and saving 60% in the process.
