Colonoscopies Save Thousands of Lives

Experts estimate the life-saving procedure prevents 30,000 deaths per year.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:22pm

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A translucent X-ray photograph showing the ghostly, glowing internal structure of a human colon, conceptually illustrating the importance of this critical organ and the need for preventive screenings.An X-ray view of the human colon, a vital but often overlooked organ that regular screenings can protect from cancer.Jackson Today

This column serves as a reminder that colonoscopy screenings save thousands of lives each year, yet one-third of older adults still do not get regular checkups. The author shares his personal experience getting a colonoscopy at a well-oiled facility in Jackson, Mississippi, praising the friendly staff and efficient procedures that make the process more comfortable.

Why it matters

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths, but it is highly treatable if caught early through regular colonoscopy screenings. Increasing awareness and access to this life-saving procedure can prevent needless deaths, especially among older adults who are at higher risk.

The details

The author got his colonoscopy at GI Associates in Jackson, describing it as a "colonoscopy factory" with a well-organized process and friendly staff. He received anesthesia with propofol and had a couple small polyps removed, a common finding. The worst part was the prep, which involved swallowing 12 large pills and drinking 16 ounces of water twice. Despite the unpleasantness, the author was determined to follow the procedures perfectly to avoid having to repeat the process.

  • The author gets a colonoscopy every 1,825 days (5 years).
  • The author's last colonoscopy was performed by Dr. Reed Hogan, who was scheduled to do 19 scopes that day.

The players

GI Associates

A medical facility in Jackson, Mississippi that specializes in colonoscopies and other gastrointestinal procedures.

Dr. Reed Hogan

The physician who performed the author's colonoscopy, continuing a family tradition as his father previously treated the author.

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What they’re saying

“Kudos to the lady who announces the next patient in the huge waiting room. She belts out 'Wyatt Emmerich, come on down!' as though you were the next contestant on a television game show. Each time she did this, the crowd couldn't help but laugh, providing a nice comedic break. It's people like that who make all the difference in the world.”

— Wyatt Emmerich, Patient

What’s next

The author plans to continue getting regular colonoscopy screenings every 5 years as recommended.

The takeaway

This story highlights the life-saving importance of colonoscopy screenings, which can prevent thousands of colorectal cancer deaths each year. While the procedure may be unpleasant, the author's positive experience at a well-run facility shows how friendly staff and efficient processes can make it more comfortable. Increasing awareness and access to this critical preventive health check is crucial, especially for older adults who are at higher risk.