My general physician
performs a flexible sigmoidoscopy every 2 years. He says this is to look for
cancer. Is the test needed so frequently?
Flexible sigmoidoscopy involves the use of a small-lighted flexible camera to look up the left side of the colon. However, this instrument cannot look at the entire colon. The only reason that I can think off for frequent tests is to defraud you. There is no evidence that regular use of a flexible sigmoidoscope can prevent or screen for cancer. The scope is short and cannot assess the right colon. My best advice; report this doctor to the State licensing board and get your self a new doctor. You only need on colonoscopy after the age of 50. If that one is normal, I do not recommend another one. Colonoscopy is a billion dollar business- the majority of these procedures are unnecessary.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy involves the use of a small-lighted flexible camera to look up the left side of the colon. However, this instrument cannot look at the entire colon. The only reason that I can think off for frequent tests is to defraud you. There is no evidence that regular use of a flexible sigmoidoscope can prevent or screen for cancer. The scope is short and cannot assess the right colon. My best advice; report this doctor to the State licensing board and get your self a new doctor. You only need on colonoscopy after the age of 50. If that one is normal, I do not recommend another one. Colonoscopy is a billion dollar business- the majority of these procedures are unnecessary.
