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CBS Early Show anchor Harry Smith made history this morning as he became the first anchor ever to have a colonoscopy done on live television.

Katie Couric was right alongside Harry as he underwent the screening. In 2002, Couric shot a pre-taped colonoscopy. After her story aired, colonoscopy screening across the country greatly increased and researchers dubbed this "the Couric effect." Now, Harry Smith hopes to have the same impact.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths among both men and women in the United States. Polyps can develop to cancer over years, but early detection can decrease mortality rates.

Dr. Karl Guter, a Great Falls Clinic oncologist, noted, "You should get one done to minimize your risk for future cancer and hopefully remove pre-malignant change, polyps and decrease your risk for colorectral cancer."

For those with an average risk, colonoscopy screening should first be done in your early 50's. If you have a direct relative with colon cancer, it's suggested that you be screened when you are 10 years younger than the age of the relative when he or she was diagnosed. For instance, if a parent is diagnosed at age 54, then you should be screened at age 44.

In January, the Montana Cancer Control Program received a grant through the CDC to assist those who are without insurance or are under-insured to get colonoscopies. Click here to learn more about the program.

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