Screening and prevention

With screening—the process of detecting cancer or precancerous growths (known as polyps) in the colon or rectum—colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable of all cancers.

In fact, some experts believe an uptake in screening over the past couple of decades has contributed, at least in part, to declining incidence rates of colorectal cancer in older adults.

During the screening, doctors can find polyps inside the colon and remove them before they become cancer. Screenings can also find cancer early when treatment is most effective.

Yes! All men and women should be screened for colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults without a family history should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45.

If you have certain risk factors—such as ethnicity, lifestyle, and family history—you may need to start screening earlier than 45. Talk to your healthcare provider about developing a screening plan for you. They can recommend how and when you should be screened.

Most people should begin colorectal cancer screenings at age 45. If you have certain risk factors, you may need to be screened earlier than 45.

If you are experiencing symptoms, then you should talk to your doctor immediately.

If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, then you should get screened at age 40 or 10 years before the age of the youngest case in your immediate family (mother, father, sister, brother).

If you are Black or African American, then you should get screened at age 45.

If you have a genetic link to colorectal cancer such as Lynch Syndrome, FAP, etc., then you should talk to your doctor about when to begin screening. Family members who tested positive for a relevant mutation(s) should start colonoscopy screening during their early 20s or 2 to 5 years younger than the youngest person in the family with a diagnosis, and repeat it every 1 to 2 years. Family members who have not been tested yet should be screened during their early 20s or 2 to 5 years younger than the youngest person in the family with a diagnosis.

If you have a personal history of cancer, then you should talk to your doctor and get screened before age 45.

If you have ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease or Crohn’s disease, then you should talk to your doctor about getting screened before age 45.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as pain, blood, or other irregularities, talk to your doctor immediately, regardless of your age or family history.

Other symptoms of colorectal cancer include a change in bowel habits, persistent abdominal discomfort, rectal bleeding, and weakness or fatigue.

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be associated with many other health conditions. Only a medical professional can determine the cause of your symptoms. Early signs of cancer often do not include pain. Don't wait before seeing a doctor. Early detection can save your life.

You should be aware that under the Affordable Care Act, screening colonoscopies are covered as a preventative measure for average risk populations with insurance. We recommend talking to your doctor, insurance provider, or local gastroenterologist to learn more about your coverage and financial assistance options they may have.

Our Screening Resources page also includes references to help you find federally-funded or low-cost screening resources if you are uninsured.

If you're unable to pay for a screening test, check out our Blue Hope Financial Assistance Program.

While many people are aware of the benefits of getting screened, they may need a little encouragement from their family and friends to follow through. You can play a significant role in your loved one’s health by providing that support.

Start by asking your loved one if they have considered getting screened. It can be a sensitive topic, so plan your approach carefully. If they haven't been screened, seek to understand why. They may be afraid to go to their healthcare provider for a colorectal cancer screening or they don't know what to say to their healthcare provider. Once you understand what is holding your loved one back from getting screened, you can help them overcome that barrier.

You may be able to convince your loved one to get screened by appealing to their emotional side. Remind them how much you love them and that you want to enjoy spending time together for as long as possible. Consider leading by example and getting screened yourself. Going through the process will allow you to better explain it to your loved one. And if you're due for a colorectal cancer screening, invite your loved one along on the healthcare provider’s visit.

If you have questions about specific screening tests, who should be screened and when, or anything else related to colon cancer screening, we encourage you talk with your doctor or call our toll-free Helpline at (877) 422-2030.