When should I get a colonoscopy, and how often?

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Short answer: Adults at average risk should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society. If your colonoscopy is normal and you are average risk, the next one is typically in 10 years. You may need to start earlier, or go more often, if you have risk factors.

You may need a colonoscopy sooner if you have

A parent, sibling or child with colorectal cancer or advanced polyps
A personal history of polyps or colorectal cancer
Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
A known inherited condition such as Lynch syndrome
Symptoms such as rectal bleeding, a change in bowel habits or anemia, at any age

How often after that?

The interval depends on what is found. If polyps are removed, your next colonoscopy may be sooner than 10 years, based on the number, size and type of polyps. Dr. Tufts will tell you when to come back. Decisions about screening after age 75 are made individually.

Why colonoscopy?

Stool-based tests are also recommended screening options. Colonoscopy is the only one that lets the doctor find and remove polyps during the same exam, and an abnormal stool test should be followed by a colonoscopy. Insurance often covers screening differently from a diagnostic exam, so our office can help you check your benefits.

When to see a surgeon

You are 45 or older and have never been screened
You have a family history or symptoms
You had an abnormal stool test (such as a positive FIT or Cologuard®)

Learn more: Colonoscopy & EGD in Port Charlotte · Book a colonoscopy consultation online

Talk with Dr. Tufts

Dr. Tufts is a minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon. To have your symptoms evaluated or talk through your options, call (941) 391-5102 to schedule a visit at Charlotte Harbor Surgical, 4245 Kings Hwy, Unit A, Port Charlotte, FL 33980. We see patients from Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Englewood, Cape Coral and North Fort Myers and across Southwest Florida.

Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Matthew Tufts, MD, FACS, a board-certified minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon in Port Charlotte, FL. Last reviewed 2026-11-11.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Every patient is different. Dr. Tufts will review your history, exam and test results with you and explain the options, benefits and risks that apply to you.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tufts

Call Charlotte Harbor Surgical in Port Charlotte. Mon–Thu 7:30 am–4:00 pm, Fri 7:30 am–12:00 noon.

Call (941) 391-5102 Patient portal