The Basics
If you are age 50 or older, get tested regularly for colorectal cancer. All it takes is a visit to the doctor to have a special exam (called a “screening”).
You may need to get tested before age 50 if colorectal cancer runs in your family. Talk to your doctor.
How Often Should I Get Screened?
There are many ways to have your colon checked. 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 colorectal cancer.
Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you and how often you need to get screened.
What Happens During the Test?
There are different kinds of tests used to screen for colorectal cancer. Some tests you can do at home, such as a fecal occult blood test. Other tests, like a colonoscopy, must be done in a clinic or hospital.
You may need to drink only liquids the day before your test and use laxatives to clean out your colon. Your doctor will tell you how to get ready for your test.
Does it hurt?
Some people find the tests for colorectal cancer to be uncomfortable. Most people agree that the benefits to their health outweigh the discomfort.
Ask your doctor to explain your screening options. Print this list of questions about screening for colorectal cancer before your next visit to the doctor.
The colon is part of the large intestine attached to the rectum.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
The colon is part of the large intestine attached to the rectum.
Cancer of the colon or rectum is called colorectal cancer. This kind of cancer can spread to other organs and overtake your whole body.
To learn more about colorectal cancer, visit these Web sites:
Am I at Risk?
People over the age of 50 are at the highest risk for colorectal cancer. Other risk factors are:
- Growths (called “polyps”) inside the colon
- Family history of colorectal cancer
- Smoking
- Health conditions like Crohn’s Disease
Use this risk calculator
to find out your personal risk of getting colorectal cancer.
The Benefits
Take Control – Act Early
Getting tested will give you the freedom from worry about colorectal cancer. If you act early, you have a good chance of finding colorectal cancer while it can be treated easily.
If your doctor finds growths inside your colon (called “polyps”) during testing, they can be removed before they become dangerous.
If you find out you have cancer when you are tested, you can take steps to treat it right away.
Take Action!
The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get tested early and often.
Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor or clinic today to schedule a screening for colorectal cancer.
What about cost?
If you have private health insurance or Medicare, it may cover the cost of colorectal cancer screening. Check with your insurance provider to learn what is included in your plan. The cost is different depending on which kind of test you need.
You can still get important screening tests even if you don't have insurance. Find a health center near you to learn more.
Get Support
If you are going to the doctor for a colorectal cancer test, ask a family member or friend to go with you. Talk to other people who have been screened to learn what to expect. Read real people's stories about colorectal cancer screening.
Get Active
Exercise may help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.
Eat Healthy
A low-fat diet full of foods with calcium and fiber may help prevent colorectal cancer.
- Calcium is in foods like non-fat or low-fat yogurt, cheese, tofu and spinach.
- Fiber is in foods like beans, barley and nuts.