Your Guide to Colonoscopies: Screening Made Easy
If someone approached you on the street and asked you what the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men and women is, would you know?
The answer: colorectal cancer.
Thanks to advancements in healthcare, colon cancer is now one of the most preventable cancers through proper screening, early detection, and removal of growths.
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, we’re committed to making this vital screening as accessible and stress-free as possible. That’s why we offer colonoscopies to patients aged 45 and older without requiring a referral. We aim to make an uncomfortable process less intimidating by removing this extra step.
Michael Dorle, MD has provided this service at our center for over 25 years, and starting in 2025, we’re enhancing our colonoscopy program with the return of Dr. Manuel Moran further expanding the expertise and care we provide.
WHEN SHOULD YOU GET A COLONOSCOPY
A colonoscopy is a minimally invasive, safe procedure used to evaluate the colon for cancer and other gastrointestinal symptoms, such as rectal and intestinal bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits. This procedure plays an important role in colorectal cancer prevention.
In 2021, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force began recommending men and women should get a colonoscopy every ten years starting at age 45. This adjustment from the previous recommendation of age 50 reflects a rise in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults.
However, each individual should weigh their risk factors when determining the age and frequency at which they receive a colonoscopy.
- Average Risk: You should have a colonoscopy every 10 years starting at age 45. If no polyps are found, the next screening can typically wait another 10 years.
- Increased Risk: Individuals with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer may require more frequent screenings based on their doctor’s recommendations.
- Bowel Conditions: If you experience ongoing symptoms of bowel irritation or inflammation, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, your doctor may suggest more frequent colonoscopies, sometimes multiple times a year.
Polyps: If polyps were discovered during a previous colonoscopy, a follow-up procedure may be needed to remove additional growths and monitor for recurrence.
Dr. Manual Moran, a leading colon and rectal surgeon, began conducting colonoscopies at our center years ago. We are excited to welcome him back in 2025!
PREPARING FOR AN UPCOMING COLONOSCOPY
If you’re feeling apprehensive about an upcoming colonoscopy, know you’re not alone. With this procedure, it’s easy to let your imagination run wild. However, much of what you hear about colonoscopies is not fact-based. Our mission is to make our patients feel comfortable every step of the way. Rest assured, you’re in good hands with the Gastroenterologists at
St. Cloud Surgical Center!
And if you’re still nervous, let’s address some common misconceptions.
MYTH #1 – It’s Going To Hurt
This is one of the biggest misconceptions! You’ll be sedated throughout the procedure and won’t feel a thing. Most patients don’t even remember it afterward.
MYTH #2 – I Don’t Need A Colonoscopy Until I Have Cancer Symptoms
Not just a myth, this is a dangerously false claim. Most pre-cancers are found in people who don’t have pain or symptoms. Regular screenings can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer by more than 50%.
MYTH #3 – Getting A Colonoscopy Is Humiliating
As a patient at St. Cloud Surgical Center, we prioritize privacy and dignity. Our team will ensure you have a respectful and comfortable experience from start to finish.
While a colonoscopy isn’t a walk in the park, it could save your life. If you are 45 years of age or older, you can schedule your screening colonoscopy at our center without a referral.
How to Schedule Your Colonoscopy at SCSC
St Cloud Surgical Center makes Colon Cancer Screening easy. By scheduling your colonoscopy screening with us, you’re assured a timely and comfortable experience and exceptional medical care.
- Step 1: Confirm you meet the age or risk criteria for screening.
- Step 2: Verify insurance coverage and understand any potential costs.
- Step 3: Contact SCSC directly at 320-229-3201 to set up an appointment.
- Step 4: Follow the preparation guidelines provided by the center before your procedure.
When you’re ready, you can schedule your colonoscopy appointment here.
Taking charge of your health is one of the most empowering decisions you can make. If you’ve been putting off your first colonoscopy, make 2025 the year you take control. A colonoscopy is not just a screening, it’s a proactive step toward the healthiest you.
Call our experienced and comforting staff at St. Cloud Surgical Center today to schedule your appointment. Your future self will thank you.