The recommended age to start getting colonoscopies depends on risk factors and regional guidelines. For people at average risk:
- In the United States, the American Cancer Society and the US Preventive Services Task Force recommend starting colorectal cancer screening at age 45, continuing every 10 years if results are normal until age 75.
- In Europe and Spain, the guideline is to start at age 50 for average-risk individuals.
- Screening may start earlier (at age 40 or before) for those with higher risk, such as family history of colon cancer or related conditions.
For people with increased risk factors (family history, previous polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, genetic syndromes), colonoscopy may be recommended earlier and more frequently. Screening generally stops around age 75-85 depending on health status. In summary, if at average risk, starting at age 45 is the current US recommendation, while Europe suggests starting at 50; if at high risk, earlier screening is advised with consultation from a healthcare professional.
