DECEMBER 17, 2021

Repeat Scoping For the Aged Often Inappropriate

Many older patients continue to undergo colonoscopies, even in the absence of significant findings on previous exams and much beyond the generally recommended cutoff age of 75 years, a large study from New Hampshire has found.

The researchers found that among adults ages 85 and older who lacked significant findings on endoscopy, only 44% received explicit recommendations to stop further colonoscopies and 27% were told to continue the exams.

“Our study raises concern about the overuse of