Screening & Early Detection
Regular screening saves lives by finding colorectal cancer early, when it's most treatable. This type of cancer also can be prevented by removing polyps during screening, before they become cancerous.
A colonoscopy is the most common type of screening for colorectal cancer, but there are other options.
Risk Factors
Knowing about the several risk factors for developing colorectal cancer will help you discuss screening with your doctor:
- You’re over 45 years of age.
- You have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
- You have a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease.
- You have inherited genetic syndromes, like Lynch syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis.
- Your lifestyle includes an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use.
Molecular & Genetic Testing
If you have family members or close relatives with a history of colorectal cancer, you may carry a gene that puts you at higher risk of developing it yourself. Several types of colorectal cancer are hereditary, meaning they can be passed down from one generation of family to the next.
Our cancer care team also has experience screening for and treating hereditary forms of colorectal cancer.
If you test positive for one of the genes, you’ll likely need screening exams more often and at a younger age than most people.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy allows your doctor to examine the entire length of your colon and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera. During the procedure, your doctor can also remove polyps or take tissue samples for testing. Most people should begin regular screening at age 45, though you may need to start earlier if you have risk factors.
Talk with your primary care provider about when and how you can schedule a colonoscopy.
Other Screening Options
Depending on your risk level and preferences, other screening tests may include:
- Stool-based tests that check for hidden blood or abnormal DNA
- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) that uses imaging to examine your colon
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy that examines the lower part of your colon
Your doctor can help you determine which screening option is right for you based on your individual risk factors and health history.
