For someone who has average risk for colon cancer in the U.S., a colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years if the colonoscopy is normal. If you have a family history of colon cancer, then you may need a colonoscopy every 5 years. There are specific evidence-based guidelines on this published by the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force.

Initial screening colonoscopy should start now, and follow up colonoscopies will depend on your findings at initial colonoscopy, family history, and your other medical history.