Preventing Colorectal Cancer: The Power of Early Screening
Cancer can feel like a scary topic, but being informed is a powerful first step. Among cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. However, most cases can be prevented with routine screening. And early detection doesn’t just improve outcomes—it can stop cancer before it even starts. If you’re 45 or older, it’s time to talk with your Care Team about getting screened.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
In simple terms, cancer occurs when cells in the body grow out of control. Colorectal cancer, specifically, develops in the colon (large intestine/large bowel) or rectum, which connects the colon to the anus. In many cases, it begins from precancerous (adenomatous) polyps. These small growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum are quite common and often harmless. Over time, though, some polyps can turn into cancer.
That’s exactly why screening is so powerful. Many screening tests can find and remove polyps before they turn into cancer. The screenings can also find colorectal cancer early—before spreading to other organs, a process called metastasis. Early detection makes treatment much more effective.
Who Gets Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is more common as we age, which is why routine screening is recommended starting at age 45 for most adults. Some people have a higher risk of getting the disease and may need screening earlier or more often.
You May Be at Increased Risk If You Have:
- A personal or family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis
- A genetic predisposition, including conditions like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
If any of these apply to you, talk to your healthcare provider about the routine screening tests that are right for you.
Symptoms to Watch For
Colorectal cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms, especially in the early stages. This is yet another reason screening is so important. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool)
- Blood in, or on, your stool
- Abdominal pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away
- Unexplained weight loss
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait—reach out to your Care Team right away.
Which Test Is Right for You?
There is more than just one way to screen for colorectal cancer. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the best option (and frequency of screening) based on your age, health history, and personal preferences.
Common screening options include:
| Common Questions | Colonoscopy (Visual Exam) “Gold Standard” |
Cologuard (Multitarget stool DNA test) |
FIT/FOBT (Fecal occult blood test) |
|---|---|---|---|
| How does it work? | Inserts flexible tube with camera to look for growths | Checks for cancer-related DNA & blood in stool | Checks for blood in a stool sample |
| Who is it for? | Average & High Risk | Average Risk 45+ | Average Risk |
| How often? | Every 10 yrs (if normal) | Every 3 years | Every Year |
| Where is it done? | Center or hospital | At home | At home |
| Time it takes? | 1-2 days (prep & procedure) | Time to collect & mail | Time to collect & mail |
| Serious risks? | Rare | None | None |
| After positive? | Biopsy/Removal | Colonoscopy | Colonoscopy |
Each test has its pros and cons. But the best test is the one you’ll complete— screening is what matters most. Bottom line: Colorectal cancer is both common and one of the most preventable cancers around. Routine screening is the quickest way to get peace of mind about your health. Reach out to your Care Team to see if it’s time to schedule your screening.