Screening for colon cancer might be easier than you think—and way more important than you realize.
Taking care of your health isn’t just about seeing the doctor when you’re sick. It’s also about staying ahead of problems before they start.
Regular checkups and screenings are a big part of preventive care. One important screening that many people overlook as they get older is colorectal cancer screening.
Did you know colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.? The good news: it’s also one of the most preventable. That’s because screening can help catch abnormal growths (called polyps) before they turn into cancer—or detect cancer early, when treatment works best.
Think of it like checking the air in your car tires. You might not notice a slow leak at first, but over time, it can lead to a flat tire. Regular screening helps catch small issues before they turn into big problems.
Why you shouldn’t wait until 50
Colorectal cancer screening isn’t just for seniors. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) lowered the recommended age for screening from 50 to 45 in 2021 due to rising rates of colorectal cancer among younger adults.
“Screening for colon cancer detects cancers early and even detects lesions before they turn to cancer. This allows you to minimize treatments and stay healthy,” said Dr. LuAnn C., Senior Medical Director at Community Health Plan of Washington. “The screening is a minor inconvenience with a big payoff.”
So when should I get screened?
Life is busy. Between work, family, and everything in between, it can be tough to find time to schedule a screening. And it’s not always clear when or how to get screened.
Let’s break it down.
- Talk to your doctor. Most experts recommend people start screening at age 45.
- If you have certain risk factors—like a family history of colorectal cancer—you might need to start earlier.
- Your doctor will look at your age, medical and family history, and other factors to help decide the best time for you.
What are the types of screening options?
There are two main types of colorectal cancer screenings:
- Stool-Based Tests (done at home) – These tests are quick and convenient. No need to go into a doctor’s office or clinic. You will be given a special kit to collect a small stool (poop) sample. The sample is sent to a lab to check for anything abnormal. Common at-home tests include:
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT). Looks for blood in your stool. Done every year.
- Cologuard (FIT-DNA). Looks for blood and genetic changes in your stool. Done every three years.
- Visual Exams (done in clinic or hospital) – These tests allow doctors to see directly inside your colon. The two most common types are:
- A thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the entire colon. If polyps are found, they can be removed during the procedure. Done every 10 years if results are normal.
- Sigmoidoscopy – Similar to a colonoscopy but only looks at the lower part of the colon. Done every five years if results are normal.
Doctors generally recommend a colonoscopy for people at higher risk, and stool-based tests for those at average risk.
Talk to your doctor about which screening test is best for you. Just remember, the right test is the one you actually complete!
How much does it cost?
More good news: Colorectal cancer screening is part of preventive care and it’s fully covered by most insurance plans. That means you pay nothing out of pocket!
Bottom line: Screening saves lives. Taking a little time now for preventive care could make a big difference in the future.
You deserve a healthy future, so don’t wait. Take charge of your health and talk to your doctor about colorectal cancer screening.
Learn more
- What is preventive care? Why is it important?
- Be Well: 5 Preventive Health Screenings You Should Know About