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Most of us assume the colonoscopy is a routine screening test we all need at age 50. However, the data is controversial and it can be argued that for people who are asymptomatic that there's no benefit when complications are considered.          

Aspirin is the most used drug in the US. They are not safe because of bleeding and perforations. Over the counter substitutes are readily available and work well and their acceptance.        

  Screening for colon cancer is controversial even though we are advised to have a colonoscopy at age 50 as a routine. However, in asymptomatic people the risk of perforation or GI bleeding offsets the benefits. The role of other screens such as occult blood in the stool, barium enemas, sigmoidoscopy and virtual colonoscopies is discussed.              

Inflammation has now been shown to promote healing, so using anti-inflammatory analgesics, while they control pain and swelling, retard healing. Injuries stimulate the production of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor) and the body manages a symphony when it comes to regulating inflammation and healing. Steroids are the ultimate example of reducing inflammation...

  Medical professional groups and cancer advocacy groups need to refocus on educating rather than persuading about cancer testing. The harms of screening have been largely dismissed. It is easy to sell screening, just magnify the benefit, minimize the cost, and hide the data about their value. These tests are big business and there are conflicts...