“Here’s why Los Angeles doctors recommend colonoscopies at 45. This removes precancerous polyps to avoid colorectal cancer, dispels myths and explains how local insurance covers the expense.”
Health and wellness are popular in Los Angeles because of juice bars, boutique exercise classes and breakthrough longevity therapies. People are always looking for ways to improve their health here. Despite these new trends there still exists a classic life saving medical procedure that is the most effective at saving lives: A routine colonoscopy.
Colorectal cancers are currently the 2nd leading cause of death from cancer, and one of the few types of cancers that can be prevented. Local doctors who work in gastroenterology recommend that the best possible way to maintain a healthy digestive system in the long run is to go for a routine colonoscopy Los Angeles.
However, a routine colonoscopy is not just about looking for early signs of cancer, but will allow you to take steps to stop cancer from ever starting. Understanding how a colonoscopy works will empower you to take control of your health proactively.
Understanding the Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard of Prevention
To understand why doctors recommend this procedure, demystify it. An outpatient colonoscopy is performed by a board certified gastroenterologist using a thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera to examine the large intestine lining. The entire operation takes 20–30 minutes. Modern, light sedation keeps patients sleepy and comfortable throughout the appointment.
Dual purpose distinguishes Los Angeles colonoscopy from other medical examinations. Mammograms and lung scans reveal disease early, but a colonoscopy prevents it. Polyps can be removed quickly by a doctor. This tissue excision prevents polyps from becoming cancerous.
These superior preventative powers have revolutionized medical standards. The American Cancer Society and USPSTF recommend average risk persons start screenings at 45, down from 50. For patients with a family history of colorectal diseases, genetic predispositions, or specific gastrointestinal symptoms, doctors recommend starting earlier.
Why Southern California Specialists Are Urging Action
An increased sense of urgency to ensure that screening tests are done routinely in Southern California has been brought about as regional and national statistics show a significant rise in the number of adults diagnosed with early onset or advanced stage Colorectal Cancer. For the first time in many years, more people under 50 years of age will require treatment for CRC at the later stages of the disease than ever before, which makes prevention through detection and intervention necessary.
While many people living in Southern California may have the advantage of living in a region with healthy lifestyles from which to choose, there are many hidden health risks associated with urban living. Due to the fast pace associated with living in a major metropolitan area, most people have developed the habit of eating convenience foods, eating in restaurants, using premade ingredients, and other habits that adversely affect gut health. Also, sedentary behavior related to long commutes, along with the high stress levels experienced daily by most people in their lives, adds cumulative stress to the digestive system.
A patient may not recognize the associations of chronic abdominal pain, unintentional weight loss, and/or sudden changes in bowel habits with colon cancer until after the disease has progressed beyond the initial diagnosis. Delaying scheduling a colonoscopy in Los Angeles until after the first warning signs have appeared for investigation of disease will result in delaying the optimal time for complete prevention of CRC through proper treatment.
Overcoming common Hesitancy: Myth vs. Reality
Despite the benefits, many people delay scheduling appointment due outdated misconceptions. Looking at the realities of modern medicine helps patients approach the procedure with confidence rather than anxiety.
Myth 1: The preparation process is unbearable
The bowel preparation required the day before procedure used to involve drinking large volumes of unpalatable fluids. However, modern gastroenterology has evolved. Today, physicians utilize low volume, split dose preps require much less fluid overall. These updated formulas are far easier to tolerate and significantly improve the patient experience.
Myth 2: The procedure is invasive and embarrassing
Fear of an intimate medical exam is normal. However, local endoscopy centers value patient privacy and dignity. Upon arrival, trained medical staff ensure your safety, comfort and respect. Due to sophisticated anesthesia, you will wake with no memory or pain.
Myth 3: An at home stool test is just as effective
Non-invasive stool tests at home are popular due to their ease. They may work for some, but they cannot replace a full exam. At-home kits cannot detect or eliminate precancerous polyps, just indicators of disease or blood markers. Similarly, patients often ask, what is a virtual colonoscopy and is it right for you? While a virtual scan uses advanced imaging to look for issues, if any abnormalities or polyps are flagged by either an at-home kit or a virtual screening, a traditional colonoscopy is still required to safely remove the tissue.
Navigating Your Care in the City
Southern California is home to some of the most advanced healthcare systems and highly trained medical specialists in the world. When looking for a provider to perform your screening, you have access to cutting edge ambulatory surgical centers and top tier hospitals.
When selecting a gastroenterologist, consider these three quality metrics:
- Board certification in gastroenterology.
- High Adenoma Detection Rates (ADR), which measure a physician’s skill in finding polyps.
- Use of advanced imaging technology, such as high definition endoscopy.
Navigating the financial aspect of preventative care is also more straightforward than many realize. Because routine colonoscopies are classified as essential preventative healthcare under the Affordable Care Act, most commercial insurance plans, as well as Medicare, cover the procedure entirely for eligible age groups. This means that for individuals aged 45 and older, the screening typically involves zero out of pocket costs.
Conclusion
Your health in today’s society is more important than finding a temporary wellness solution; it is to find a well established foundation for your health that includes preventative methods. The benefits of a colonoscopy are nothing compared to the way you will feel when you know you are doing everything possible to protect yourself from colon cancer and other preventable diseases, as the colonoscopy is such an incredibly short and minor inconvenience compared to the peace of mind you will have and the long term protection you have gained from the experience.
Your health should not be compromised by your busy life or inaccurate common thoughts. If you are 45 years old or older, or if there is a family history of gastrointestinal disorders, find a qualified gastroenterologist in your area and schedule a colonoscopy in Los Angeles.
Disclaimer
The information on this blog is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider or a gastroenterologist in Los Angeles regarding your specific medical needs.
