Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer screening is the process of looking for signs of cancer or precancerous growths in the colon and rectum before they cause symptoms. Screening can detect cancer early, when it is most treatable, and can also help prevent cancer by finding and removing precancerous polyps.

Screening recommendations vary depending on age, risk factors, and personal and family history. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer begin regular screening at age 45. For people with a family history of colorectal cancer or certain other risk factors, earlier or more frequent screening may be recommended.

Screening methods include:

1. Colonoscopy: This is the most commonly used and most thorough screening test for colorectal cancer. During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon and rectum, and can remove any polyps that are found.
2. Stool-based tests: These tests check for blood or other markers in the stool that may indicate the presence of cancer or precancerous growths. Stool tests are less invasive than colonoscopy, but may not detect all polyps or cancers.
3. Virtual colonoscopy: Also known as CT colonography, this test uses a CT scan to create images of the colon and rectum. It is less invasive than traditional colonoscopy, but may still require bowel preparation and may not detect small polyps.
4. Flexible sigmoidoscopy: This test is similar to a colonoscopy, but examines only the lower part of the colon. It is less invasive than colonoscopy, but may not detect polyps in the upper part of the colon.
5. Double-contrast barium enema: This test uses X-rays and contrast dye to create images of the colon and rectum. It is less commonly used than other screening tests and may not detect small polyps.

It is important to talk to a healthcare provider about which screening test is right for each individual, based on their age, risk factors, and personal preferences.