Get Screened.
It Could Save Your Life.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers — yet it remains one of the deadliest. Screening can detect cancer early, when treatment is most effective, and in many cases, prevent it entirely.
Why Colon Cancer Screening Matters
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States — and the second leading cause of cancer-related death among men and women combined. Yet it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer when detected early.
The disease often begins as small, noncancerous growths called polyps that form on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some of these polyps can develop into cancer. Screening allows doctors to find and remove these polyps before they become dangerous.
When colorectal cancer is found early — before it has spread — the five-year survival rate is approximately 91%. But when the cancer is detected at a later stage, that survival rate drops significantly. Unfortunately, many people do not get screened until symptoms appear, which often means the cancer has already advanced.
That's why screening matters. It finds what you can't feel.
When Should You Get Screened?
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk for colorectal cancer begin regular screening at age 45. This applies to both men and women, regardless of symptoms.
If you are at higher risk — due to family history, genetic conditions, or other factors — your doctor may recommend starting screening earlier and more frequently.
Higher Risk Factors
- Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Certain inherited genetic syndromes (such as Lynch syndrome)
- Previous radiation therapy to the abdomen or pelvic area
- African American ethnicity (higher incidence and mortality rates)
- Obesity, physical inactivity, or a diet high in red or processed meats
- Smoking or heavy alcohol use
Talk to your doctor about your personal and family medical history to determine the right screening schedule for you.
Common Screening Methods
There are several effective screening options available. Your doctor can help you determine which method is right for you based on your risk factors, preferences, and medical history.
Colonoscopy
The gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. A doctor uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon and rectum. Polyps can be found and removed during the same procedure. Recommended every 10 years for average-risk adults.
Stool-Based Tests
Non-invasive tests that check for hidden blood or abnormal DNA in your stool. These include the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and the guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT). Recommended annually.
Stool DNA Test
Also known as Cologuard, this at-home test combines a FIT test with DNA analysis to detect abnormal cells shed into the stool. It is recommended every 3 years and requires a follow-up colonoscopy if results are positive.
CT Colonography
Sometimes called a virtual colonoscopy, this test uses CT imaging to produce detailed pictures of the colon. It is less invasive than a traditional colonoscopy but still requires bowel preparation. Recommended every 5 years.
What to Expect During a Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is the most effective screening method for colorectal cancer. Understanding what to expect can help ease any concerns and make the process less intimidating.
Consultation with Your Doctor
Your doctor will review your medical history, discuss your risk factors, and determine if a colonoscopy is the right screening option for you. This is the time to ask any questions you may have.
Bowel Preparation
The day before your procedure, you will follow a special diet and drink a bowel prep solution to clean out your colon. This step is essential for a clear and accurate exam.
Day of the Procedure
When you arrive, a nurse will start an IV line. You will receive sedation so you are comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure. Most patients do not remember the exam.
The Colonoscopy Itself
The doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the rectum to examine the entire colon. If polyps are found, they are typically removed during the procedure. The exam usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Recovery
After the procedure, you will rest in a recovery area while the sedation wears off. Most people feel fine within an hour. You will need someone to drive you home.
Results and Follow-Up
Your doctor will share preliminary results with you after the procedure. If polyps were removed, they will be sent to a lab for analysis. Your doctor will let you know when to schedule your next screening.
How to Talk to Your Doctor
If you are 45 or older — or have risk factors that may require earlier screening — the most important thing you can do is start the conversation with your doctor.
You don't need to have symptoms to bring it up. Simply ask: “Should I be screened for colorectal cancer?” Your doctor can walk you through your options and recommend the right test based on your personal risk.
If you don't have a primary care doctor, community health centers and local clinics often offer screenings at low or no cost. Organizations like the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and the American Cancer Society can help connect you with resources in your area.
“What questions should I ask?” Here are a few to get started: What type of screening do you recommend for me? How often should I be screened? Are there ways to reduce my risk?
Screening saves lives. The hardest part is making the appointment — and you have the power to do that today.
Take Control of Your Health.
Get Screened Today.
Screening saves lives. Whether you are ready to schedule your first screening or want to learn more, taking the first step is what matters most.