Colonoscopy and Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, can develop in polyps in the colon’s inner lining. Because colon cancer may not cause symptoms early on, it's important to start colon cancer screening beginning at age 45 for those at average risk.
What is a Colonoscopy?
The most well-known colon cancer screening is called a colonoscopy. This procedure allows your healthcare provider to check the inside of your entire large intestine (or colon).
In addition to being a prevention tool, colonoscopies can be used to treat cancerous polyps, if caught early.
A colonoscopy may be used to check for and, if needed, treat other things such as:
- Bleeding in the GI tract
- Colon polyps
- Narrowed areas (strictures) of the colon
- Pouches (diverticula) along the colon wall
- Tumors
- Ulceration
- Unexplained, long-term diarrhea
Treatment Options Available at Hawaiʻi Pacific Health
At Hawaiʻi Pacific Health medical centers, our gastroenterologists work together with other specialists to offer routine colonoscopy exams as well as other colonoscopy screenings.
With locations and virtual care options across Hawaiʻi, we offer services and preventive health screenings that are convenient and accessible for patients of all ages.
Colonoscopy Frequently Asked Questions
Sometimes, preparing for a colonoscopy can be more stressful than the procedure itself. Below are frequently asked questions we receive from patients about how to prepare for a colonoscopy and what to expect the day of the procedure.
Why Do I Need to Prepare?
Why does bowel prep matter so much for colonoscopy?
Cleaning out your colon helps the doctor see clearly inside. If your colon is clean, it’s easier to find things like polyps or signs of cancer. The better your colon is cleaned, the better the test will work.
What If I Don't Prepare for the Exam?
What happens if the prep isn’t done well?
If your colon isn’t cleaned out enough, the doctor might not be able to see everything clearly. This means they could miss things like polyps or cancer. You might even have to do the test again!
How Do I Know if I Did the Prep Correctly?
How do I know if my colon is clean enough?
Look at your stool after finishing the prep.
- If it’s clear and yellow, you are ready.
- If it looks like coffee or pudding, your colon is not clean, and you should call 808-983-CARE to speak with a nurse.
Do I Stop Taking My Medications?
Do I stop taking my prescription medications?
Most of the time, you can take your regular medications as usual until four hours before your procedure. After that, you must stop eating or drinking anything. Some medications – like diabetes medicines, blood thinners, and weight-loss pills – may have special instructions. Please tell our staff about all medications you take so we can guide you.
How Long Will It Take?
How long will my appointment take?
You’ll be at the Endoscopy Suite for about two hours. The actual procedure takes about 15-30 minutes.
What Should I Avoid Drinking During Prep?
What can I not have on a clear liquid diet?
Stick with things you can see through clearly.
Avoid milky, cloudy, or thick drinks. Do not have:
- Milk or cream
- Orange juice
- Soup with chunks
- Honey, nectar, oils, or miso soup
Do not drink alcohol during your bowel prep.
Can I Brush My Teeth?
Can I brush my teeth before the procedure?
Yes, you can brush your teeth. Just don’t swallow the water, or your stomach will no longer be empty (NPO).
Will I Need to Miss Work?
Do I have to miss work?
You do not need to miss work the day before or after your procedure. You only need time off on the day of your procedure.
What If I Have My Period?
Do I need to cancel my colonoscopy if I have my period?
No. You do not need to cancel if you are on your period.