Annual scope question/ worry

Diagnosed in 2003 by scope followed by a 7 day hospital stay. Fortunate to have had no major issues from then till Nov 2012.

Colonoscopy in Dec 2012 followed by major flare up. No polyps or pre-cancer cells. Plenty of blood and a hospital stay. Just now seem to be returning to "normal".

GI wants to scope again as part of cancer screening. Seems pissed that I have not scheduled it yet.

I understand the increased risk of cancer. I think I understand that the biopsies may not find cancer even if it is there; therefore, the annual tests (in my opinion, a fishing expedition).

I cannot seem to convince myself that I am ready for another scope.

I am being short sighted?

I feel like I am asking for another bad flare.

Post Edited (John65) : 3/4/2014 12:12:37 AM (GMT-7)

But his last scope was December 2012, so it would be 2 years since the last one.

Personally, I'm right there with you John65, I have had 2 flex sigs and immediately after each one my symptoms got way worse (fortunately not needing hospital - ugh!) which makes me really nervous about my next one, which I have managed to put off for 4 years now.

It's your body. There is a slight increased cancer risk with UC. You have UC. They generally don't find cancer without a scope. Scopes can make it all worse. I guess you just have to put it all together for yourself, weigh the risks and benefits, and do what you feel is right for you. Maybe have a scope every 3 or 4 years and then be extra careful with your body right after (maybe drink lots of chicken broth?). Whatever you decide, good luck!

In my mind this is a very grey area. The book says go with your scope but you raise some very good arguments. Your darned if you do, darned if you don't.