Colon cancer ranks among the most preventable cancers, and timely screening serves as the strongest safeguard. As people get older, they begin to wonder, “When should I screen for colon cancer?”
It’s an important question for all adults to consider.
Many cases of colon cancer begin as small clumps of cells known as polyps. These growths form inside the lining of the colon or rectum and are usually harmless at first. Over time, however, some of them can turn into cancer.
The goal of screening is to find polyps early, remove them, and in many cases prevent colon cancer before it starts.
Colon cancer can develop silently without obvious warning signs, so waiting for colon cancer symptoms is not a safe approach. Screening allows doctors to look for problems at an early, more treatable stage.
For people at average risk, it is recommended to start colon cancer screening at age 45. This timing is a change from older guidelines that suggested beginning at age 50. The change comes from data that shows colon cancer is increasingly being diagnosed in people younger than 50.
And, screening is not a one-time event.
Depending on the test you and your doctor choose, it will need to be repeated at regular intervals. Colonoscopies may be spaced 10 years apart, while stool tests are typically done every one to three years. Regular follow-up is important to maintain protection.
Not everyone should wait until 45.
Some people need to begin screening much sooner and repeat it more often. You may fall into this group if you have:
Additionally, it is a diagnostic step that should not be delayed if you have symptoms that raise concern, including:
Several types of tests can be used to check for colon cancer. Each has its benefits and limitations. Your doctor can help you choose the option that best fits your situation.
Stool tests are done at home using a kit provided by your doctor. These tests look for hidden blood or abnormal DNA fragments in a stool sample. They are easy to complete and do not require special preparation, but they are less accurate than direct examinations.
They only detect possible warning signs, so they must be repeated more often, sometimes every year. If the test shows anything unusual, a colonoscopy will be needed to investigate further. A test can also show a negative result, but you may still have early colon cancer.
A colonoscopy is the most thorough screening tool available. Preparation requires cleaning out the bowel beforehand, and the test is usually done under sedation for comfort.
During this procedure, a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon, allowing doctors to view the entire lining directly.
If a polyp or abnormal area is seen, it can usually be removed or biopsied during the procedure. This immediate ability to both diagnose and treat makes colonoscopy the gold standard in colon cancer screening. Although more invasive than stool testing, it does not need to be repeated as often, usually once every 10 years if results are normal.
Other tests, such as flexible sigmoidoscopy and CT colonography, also called virtual colonoscopy, may also be used in certain situations.
Colon cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Colonoscopy detects cancer at an earlier stage when it’s easier to treat. It can also prevent cancer by removing polyps before they become dangerous. For many people, knowing they are being proactive about their health brings reassurance and peace of mind.
If you’ve been asking, “When should I screen for colon cancer?”, it’s time to reach out to an expert gastroenterologist in San Antonio. Schedule an appointment today!
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