What is the recommended frequency for a colonoscopies for a male over 40?

Men do not typically need to undergo routine colonoscopies before the age of 50 unless they have risk factors for colon cancer, as MedlinePlus explains. After the age of 50, men should receive a colonoscopy once every 10 years until the age of 75.

Men should receive colonoscopies at an earlier age if they have a family history of colon cancer or if they have experienced polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, according to MedlinePlus. Colorectal adenomas and ulcerative colitis also prompt colonoscopies at a younger age. MedlinePlus also recommends annual stool tests, and rectal exams called sigmoidoscopies should be performed every 5 to 10 years.