A recent Canadian study presented in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that a colonoscopy can lower the death rate from colon cancer.  However, the study did find that colonoscopy can miss some polyps in the colon.

The highlights of the study underscore the importance of a quality colonoscopy.  The best possible benefit from a colonoscopy can be achieved when the entire colon is visualized, the colon preparation is excellent (excellent "clean out" with laxatives), and a highly qualified physician is the one performing the colonoscopy.

Previous studies have shown that gastroenterologists (digestive health specialists) are highly qualified physicans in performance of colonoscopy.  We suggest patients choose a gastroenterologist to perform colonoscopy and try to drink all the laxative for colon preparation.  A better preparation will reduce the likelihood of missed colon polyps. 

Patient's should discuss their own health history and make decisions regarding their health with their doctor.