Being screened for colon cancer certainly isn't any fun. But if you put it off and don't get screened as recommended, you may have even less fun to look forward to in the future. Screening is important to make sure colon cancer, if you do have it, is detected earlier when it is easier to treat. But what if you're still struggling to convince yourself to get screened, even though you know it's important? Here are some tips you can follow to get yourself into that GI doctor's office.
Challenge a bunch of friends to do it, too.
Do you have one or more friends who are the same or similar age to you? Chances are, they also need a colonoscopy, and they're probably not excited about it either. You could challenge all of these friends to get screened for colon cancer, too. You can hold each other accountable, and when you all complete the challenge, you can get together and celebrate somehow. Going through this with friends means you'll have someone to text and complain to when you're drinking your prep beverage, preparing for the screening, and so forth. And simply having that support can make a huge difference!
Book it along with other tests.
Is colon cancer screening one of several tests you're due for? Maybe you also need to have an eye exam, and perhaps you also need a mammogram. Consider scheduling all of these tests back-to-back, one after the other. This way, you only have to get up the nerve to get tested once. You may also find yourself less fixated on the upcoming colon cancer screening since you will also be thinking of the other tests—which tend to be less invasive and less intimidating.
Read more about colon cancer.
Many people don't know very much about colon cancer, its risk factors, and how it is diagnosed and treated. The more you learn about this topic, the more you'll come to understand why screening is important. So, if you are someone who likes to be informed, read some articles on these topics. Make sure they are from reputable organizations such as universities, government websites, and doctors' websites.
Colon cancer screening isn't something that most people look forward to, but it really is necessary. If you're struggling to convince yourself to make the phone call and schedule your appointment, then the tips above should prove helpful. To learn more, contact a company such as Gastro Health.
Share2 August 2022
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