Jaques, Cory D2008-11-242008-11-242008-11-24https://hdl.handle.net/11299/45391The information provided in this handout does not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Minnesota Medical School physicians and faculty. These materials are provided for informational purposes only and are in no way intended to take the place of the advice and recommendations of your personal health care provider. You use the information provided in these handouts at your own risk.Colonoscopy is an effective tool for screening for colorectal cancer in adults over 75, and the rates of complications are similar to those for people under 65. In general, colonoscopy is recommended in adults with a life expectancy of five years or more. Studies have found that screening colonoscopy in the very elderly (over 80) results in only 15% of the expected gain in life expectancy in younger patients, and in this population should only be performed with careful consideration to risks and benefits for that particular patient. Expert recommendation is to evaluate life expectancy, and only screen those with 5 or more years of life expectancy.en-USColonoscopyColorectal CancerGeriatricElderlyOther