The Basics
Men and women age 50 and older should be tested regularly for colorectal cancer. All it takes is a visit to the doctor to have a special exam (called a “screening”).
If you are at higher risk - especially if someone in your family has colorectal cancer - you may need to be tested before age 50. Talk to your doctor.
There are many ways to have your colon checked. Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you and how often you should get screened. Some tests are done every 1-2 years. Other tests are done every 5–10 years. How often you get screened will depend on your risk of colon cancer.
