It’s a day I’ve been dreading for some time.

I jokingly refer to it as my day of reckoning.

Later this month, I’m scheduled to have my first colonoscopy/endoscopy.

After having previously rescheduled the procedure several times, it appears I’m out of lifelines.

It isn’t so much the procedure itself, but rather, the prep that comes the day before that I’m not looking forward to.

Yet those whom I’ve spoken with who have undergone the same measure have all assured me it’s really not that big of a deal.

In fact, they all said they actually felt much better following the process.

But as someone who has never undergone an operation or procedure before, it most definitely isn’t something I’m chomping at the bit to do.

Not exactly the type of thing that would make me want to do jumping-jacks or cartwheels, let alone put on my bucket list for that matter.

Especially since I’ll technically just be of the age when it’s suggested a person has a colonoscopy per the newest recommended guidelines.

Adults who are at average risk for colorectal cancer used to begin having regular colonoscopies when they turned 50.

The American Cancer Society’s newest guidelines now recommend age 45 due to colorectal cancer cases being on the rise among young and middle-aged people.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular screening beginning at age 45 is the key to preventing colorectal cancer and finding it early.

Colorectal cancer is most treatable when found early, as colonoscopies not only detect the disease, but prevent cancer since precancerous polyps can be removed during the procedure.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults age 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer, and that adults age 76 to 85 talk to their doctor about screening.

The CDC recommends that most people should begin screening soon after turning 45, then continue at regular intervals.

While I’m certain I’ll be glad once the procedure is finished, it’s just not something that I associated myself having to do until later in life.

On a positive note, Opening Day for Major League Baseball is right around the same time.

Just in time for the popcorn, peanuts and hot dogs.