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Colon cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when caught early. Most colorectal cancers begin as small, precancerous growths called polyps. These polyps can be identified and removed before they become cancer, making routine screening essential for protecting your health.
We’re here to help you understand when to start screening, what to expect and how to take the next step with a primary care provider who knows you and your health goals.
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Why screening matters
Colon cancer is the number one cancer killer among nonsmokers and the second leading cause of cancer death overall, after lung cancer.
Because early-stage colon cancer and precancerous polyps rarely cause symptoms, waiting until you feel something is not a safe approach. Screening finds problems early, oftem long before symptoms appear, when treatment is most effective.
Who should be screened for colon cancer
Average risk adults: anyone 45 years and older should undergo regular colorectal cancer screening with a total colon exam.
Higher risk individuals: you may be considered at a higher risk if you have either a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) with colon cancer or precancerous polyps, or a family history of colon cancer, which can triple or quadruple your lifetime risk.
High risk individuals should begin screening at age 40, or 10 years before the age at which the youngest affected relative was diagnosed. If you’re unsure whether you’re at a higher risk, your primary care provider can walk you through your history and recommend the right plan.
Common symptoms of colon cancer
Most early colon cancers and polyps do not cause symptoms.
When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Blood in or on your stool
- Abdominal discomfort
- Changes in bowel habits
- Unintentional weight loss
Discussing any of these changes with your primary care provider is important, even if you are not yet due for screening.
What is the best screening option?
A colonoscopy is the most accurate and comprehensive screening tool available. It allows specialists to view your entire colon and remove polyps during the same exam—helping prevent cancer before it starts.
Colonoscopy is superior to:
- Sigmoidoscopy (which only views the lower third of the colon)
- Stool tests that detect blood or chemical markers
- Barium enema X-rays
- Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography)
Because colonoscopy both detects and removes precancerous polyps, it remains the recommended approach for most people.