There are plenty of good reasons to get a colonoscopy. But what happens when your partner is reluctant to get his or hers? Here are some strategies—from silly to serious—to help you persuade your loved one that a colonoscopy is important and necessary.
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Remind Him that Colon Cancer is the Only Preventable Cancer. Each year nearly 137,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the U.S. and over 50,000 people die from it annually. A simple colonoscopy, however, can detect precancerous polyps and stop threats before they start. Tell him not to risk getting cancer just because a colonoscopy sounds daunting.
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Tell Her It’s Worth It. No one is going to sugarcoat it: Colonoscopies, especially the preparation for them, isn’t’ anyone’s idea of fun. But it’s worth it. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death. One rough day could make the difference between detecting colon cancer early or finding it too late.
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Two Words: Peer Pressure. Two-thirds of those who should be getting colonoscopies are getting colonoscopies. You and your peers are in the same situation. Be a leader and don’t be afraid to get a colonoscopy.
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Bribes. What’s her favorite food? Tell her it will be waiting for her after her colonoscopy. Does he really want to go watch the game with friends that evening you had theater tickets? Tell him you’ll take someone else if he gets that colonoscopy. A new item of clothing, a free pass from taking out the garbage? Whatever it takes, it’s worth it.
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Highlight All the Reasons To Not Get Colorectal Cancer. Have a big trip coming up? Don’t let colorectal cancer ruin it. Have grandkids? Hoping to have grandkids? Give yourself as long as possible to enjoy your life. You don’t know what the future holds. But there’s no reason it should hold colorectal cancer.
Resources
4 Questions to Ask Before You Get a Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy: Frequently Asked Questions