Colonoscopy interval guidelines for 2025
Colonoscopy interval guidelines for 2025 primarily recommend 10-year intervals for average-risk individuals after a normal colonoscopy, though specific intervals vary significantly based on the findings from the initial procedure. Individuals with adenomas or serrated polyps will have different, shorter recommended intervals depending on the number, size, and type of polyps found. It’s crucial for healthcare providers to base the next screening interval on the specific details of the baseline colonoscopy and individual risk factors.
General Guidelines for Average-Risk Individuals
- Normal Colonoscopy: After a negative (normal) colonoscopy, the recommended interval is generally 10 years for average-risk adults, starting at age 45 in some guidelines.
Guidelines Based on Initial Findings
- No Polyps Found: A negative colonoscopy typically leads to a recommended 10-year interval.
- Adenomatous Polyps (Polyps that can become cancerous):
- 1-2 Small (e.g., < 1 cm) Tubular Adenomas with Low-Grade Dysplasia: A follow-up colonoscopy in 7-10 years may be recommended.
- 3-4 Tubular Adenomas < 1 cm: A follow-up in 3-5 years is suggested.
- 5-10 Adenomas, or Any Adenoma ≥ 1 cm, or with Villous Features/High-Grade Dysplasia: The next colonoscopy is recommended within 3 years.
- More than 10 Adenomas: A follow-up in 1 year is recommended.
- Sessile Serrated Polyps:
- 1-2 Small (< 10mm) Sessile Serrated Polyps: A repeat colonoscopy in 5-10 years may be indicated.
- 3-4 Small (< 10mm) Sessile Serrated Polyps: A 3-5 year follow-up is suggested.
- Polyp ≥ 10mm or High-Grade Dysplasia: A 3-year follow-up is recommended.
Key Considerations
- Individualized Risk:These guidelines provide a framework, but your specific next screening interval will be determined by your physician based on the size, number, and histologic findings of any polyps or other abnormalities found during your baseline colonoscopy, as well as other clinical and family history factors.
- High-Quality Colonoscopy:The goal is to catch precancerous lesions to prevent colorectal cancer. The quality of the initial colonoscopy is critical in determining appropriate future intervals
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