Bowel screening, colonoscopy etc

I have just "failed" standard mass screening test (last one I would be eligible for at 74 i think) and have been offered a screening appointment and then probably a colonoscopy.

My previous colonoscopy was 4.5 years ago and "normal", not even any polyps. I do not score against any risk factors, except radiotherapy of the prostate 2 years ago, which seems to have gone well other than for late effects to my bowel movements. This makes for symptoms which could be bowel cancer. 

I am undecided about undergoing investigations. I would be unlikely to accept any treatment, but should I KNOW and adjust my life accordingly? 

Letter re "screening practitioner appointment" received at a weekend immediately before I go on holiday and I will not be in UK on date I have been given. I shall try to phone from overseas ASAP, but what shall I say?

Sorry, bit rambling, but it was unexpected and bad timing and has upset me more than prostate cancer diagnosis did.

Any and all comments, kind or harsh, welcome.

Thanks, dj.

Parents
  • I would definitely attend ,I would reschedule for after your holiday ,chances are its nothing to worry about but if it is wouldn't you rather know ,If you just ignore it you will be forever thinking about it ,it will not go away so I would advise you to make another appointment at your convenience .

  • Oh yes. I did speak at length about re-scheduling and they did come up with one the day after I arrive home. Just that by phone and I am not sure how that will work!

  • Pre-colonoscopy assessment by phone yesterday, so only lost 4 days from the schedule because of being on holiday. Blood test bit arranged for Monday, procedure for 19 July if I am in acceptable condition! 

    Although FIT result says only "abnormal", the assessment nurse made some comment about referring at "120". If I understand that correctly then cancer pretty much certain. I shall however undergo the colonoscopy if on offer. Any treatment a different matter.

    I do have confirmatory symptoms, but also 2 other conditions which could present the same, so maybe gives a probability of not C of 10%.

    Whatever, I prefer to know. Doubt I will sleep well next 13 nights.....

Reply
  • Pre-colonoscopy assessment by phone yesterday, so only lost 4 days from the schedule because of being on holiday. Blood test bit arranged for Monday, procedure for 19 July if I am in acceptable condition! 

    Although FIT result says only "abnormal", the assessment nurse made some comment about referring at "120". If I understand that correctly then cancer pretty much certain. I shall however undergo the colonoscopy if on offer. Any treatment a different matter.

    I do have confirmatory symptoms, but also 2 other conditions which could present the same, so maybe gives a probability of not C of 10%.

    Whatever, I prefer to know. Doubt I will sleep well next 13 nights.....

Children