20 Steps to Master the Art of Surviving Your First Colonoscopy

17. Colonoscopies Aren’t Just for People Over 50 Anymore

For decades, colonoscopy guidelines recommended beginning routine screenings at age 50. But that’s changing—the new standard is age 45, reflecting a concerning rise in colorectal cancer rates among younger adults. This shift means that people in their mid-40s, even without symptoms or risk factors, should talk to their doctor about scheduling their first colonoscopy. Those with a family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or known genetic mutations may need to start even earlier. Unfortunately, younger individuals often dismiss early signs of colon issues—like rectal bleeding or unexplained changes in bowel habits—as something less serious. This leads to late diagnoses and more aggressive disease. Colonoscopies, along with other screening methods, can catch problems before they escalate. Starting earlier improves outcomes dramatically, and the procedure is usually covered by insurance once you meet the age threshold or have qualifying risk factors. It’s not just for seniors—it’s a smart step for anyone in midlife.

18. Results Aren’t Always Immediate—And That’s Okay

While many patients expect instant answers, the results of a colonoscopy aren’t always available right away—and that’s completely normal. If your doctor didn’t find any abnormalities, they might tell you immediately after the procedure once you’ve recovered from the sedation. However, if biopsies were taken or polyps were removed, the tissue samples need to be analyzed in a lab. This pathology process typically takes a few days to a week. During this time, it’s important to be patient. Waiting can feel stressful, but it doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. In fact, most polyps are benign or precancerous, and early removal often prevents future issues altogether. Your doctor will call or schedule a follow-up to discuss the findings and next steps. In the meantime, try not to jump to conclusions. A delay in results is usually just a sign that your care team is being thorough—not that there’s cause for alarm.