Depending on the country you live in, many people will be recommended to have a routine colonoscopy when they reach a certain age. Other reasons that a colonoscopy might be recommended is due to a history of polyps or other clinical issues as well as a family history of colorectal cancer.
However, the evidence on whether screening by colonoscopy prevents cancer deaths is mixed, while there is a potential for harm.
What most people are unaware of is that a simple stool test measuring fecal occult blood (hidden blood in your poo) and calprotectin (a marker of immune inflammation in the large intestine) can be used as a validated screen for many of the same issues a colonoscopy is used for.
If the poop test comes back out of range for either of these, one can always still go for a colonoscopy. But under the philosophy of starting with the least invasive options with the most benefit and only increasing potential risk as needed, often doing a stool screening has better benefit to harm profile than a colonoscopy test.
(As always, discuss with and follow the advice of your trusted medical professional).
