American Journal of Medicine Open · Published 2026-02-28 · DOI 10.1016/j.ajmo.2026.100131
In this communication, the authors attempted to weave together medical history, public policy, popular culture, comedy, film, and the arts to examine how ‘colonoscopy’ has entered the public lexicon. The narrative flows from evidence-based screening policy to cultural commentary, while maintaining a thoughtful and balanced tone. The manuscript attempts to highlight legitimate patient anxieties while also acknowledging the medical community's efforts to improve patient experience through advances in preparation, sedation, and technique while never losing sight of reinforcing the value of colorectal cancer screening and shared decision and recognizing that cultural visibility – whether humorous, artistic, or provocative – can serve as a powerful catalyst for patient-provider conversations.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
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