Colonoscopy Screening

Colorectal Cancer Screening: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. It is important to get screened for colorectal cancer because early detection and treatment can improve your chances of survival.

Who Should Get Screened?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that adults age 45 or older get screened for colorectal cancer. This includes people who are at average risk of colorectal cancer, meaning they have no risk factors other than age.

What Are the Different Screening Tests?

There are several different screening tests available for colorectal cancer. The most common test is colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a procedure in which a doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end into your rectum and colon. The camera allows the doctor to see the inside of your colon and rectum and look for any polyps or other abnormalities. Other screening tests for colorectal cancer include: * Stool-based tests: Stool-based tests check for blood in your stool. Blood in your stool can be a sign of colorectal cancer. * Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure in which a doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end into your rectum and sigmoid colon. The sigmoid colon is the lower part of your colon. * Virtual colonoscopy: Virtual colonoscopy is a painless procedure that uses X-rays to create a 3D image of your colon and rectum.

Which Screening Test Is Right for Me?

Talk to your doctor about which screening test is right for you. The best screening test for you will depend on your age, risk factors, and personal preferences.

How Often Should I Get Screened?

The USPSTF recommends that adults age 45 to 75 get screened for colorectal cancer every 10 years. Adults age 76 to 85 should talk to their doctor about screening.

What Are the Benefits of Screening?

Screening for colorectal cancer can help you detect the disease at an early stage, when it is more likely to be curable. Screening can also help you prevent colorectal cancer by finding and removing polyps before they have a chance to turn into cancer.

What Are the Risks of Screening?

Colonoscopy is a safe procedure, but there are some risks associated with it, including: * Bleeding * Infection * Perforation (a tear in the colon or rectum) Stool-based tests and flexible sigmoidoscopy are less invasive than colonoscopy and have fewer risks.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you are 45 years old or older, talk to your doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer. Screening can help you detect the disease at an early stage, when it is more likely to be curable.