It is the only tool we have available that allows: 1) direct visualization of the lining of the colon (mucosa), 2) biopsy or sampling of the mucosa, and 3) removal of polyps or growths within the colon.
It gives us the opportunity to diagnose different diseases, such as colitis, by visualizing specific abnormalities and taking biopsies.
It allows us to treat patients, as polyps and even early cancers can be removed at the time of the procedure.
The contents of this website are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nor does the contents of this website constitute the establishment of a physician patient or therapeutic relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Dr. Oz tells his personal story of a colonoscopy and the results that changed his life. In this video, he talks about why colonoscopies are so important.
A colonoscopy is needed for these reasons:
- For people at risk, colonoscopy is the best test to screen for colon
cancer, pre-cancerous growths and polyps. If an abnormal growth
or polyp is found, the doctor can remove it, take a biopsy, or
recommend surgical removal later. Detecting and removing
growths may prevent cancer from developing. - A colonoscopy also helps your doctor see other problems that may be
causing abdominal pain, weight loss, or changes in bowel habits.
This includes ulcers, narrowed areas, inflammation or bleeding.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Americans. A colonoscopy is the single most accurate test for colorectal cancer. Importantly, a colonoscopy can identify and remove pre-cancerous lesions (polyps) and thus reduce the risk of developing cancer in the future.
Colonoscopy lets your doctor examine the lining of your large intestine (colon) for abnormalities by inserting a thin flexible tube, as thick as your finger, into your anus and slowly advancing it into the rectum and colon. This instrument, called a colonoscope, has its own lens and light source and it allows your doctor to view images on a video monitor.
Colonoscopy may be recommended as a screening test for colorectal cancer, which is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. Annually, approximately 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed in the U.S. and nearly 50,000 people die from the disease. It is estimated that increased awareness and screening would save at least 30,000 lives each year.
Beginning at age 50, both men and women at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should have a colonoscopy every 10 years. People with risk factors or family history of colorectal cancer should talk with a gastroenterologist about screening sooner and find out how often they need to be screened. Individuals at any age with certain symptoms should speak with a physician. The following symptoms might indicate colorectal cancer: Blood in your stools, narrower than normal stools, unexplained abdominal pain, unexplained change in bowel habits, unexplained anemia, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms may be caused by other benign diseases such as hemorrhoids, inflammation in the colon or irritable bowel syndrome. If you experience any of these symptoms for more than a few days, talk to a gastroenterologist.
Colonoscopy is a valuable tool for the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases of the large intestine. As a result of the progress made in the field of fiber optics, colonoscopies are now considered a safe, relatively simple and highly effective diagnostic technique. Increased awareness of the value of early diagnosis has made the procedure part of many people’s comprehensive physical examination.
Through the use of colonoscopy, a physician can detect and remove polyps without abdominal surgery and perform biopsies, which may reveal early signs of cancer. In addition, periodic colonoscopy is critical in monitoring patients who have had polyps, colitis or colon cancer or who have a family history of colon cancer.
Continue Learning about Colonoscopy
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.