Colorectal, or colon cancer, is one of the most preventable types of cancer. Regular screenings help prevent it by catching polyps before they become cancerous and can also help detect it early, when treatment often leads to a cure.
The American Cancer Society recommends that colorectal cancer screenings begin at age 45 because the vast majority of new cases of colorectal cancer – around 90 percent – occur in people who are 45 or older.
Those with a family or personal history of colorectal cancer, personal history of an inflammatory bowel disease, family history of a hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome or who have had radiation in the abdomen or stomach area to treat a prior cancer should talk with their primary care provider about whether screening earlier may be appropriate.
There are several screening options available. Talk to your primary care provider about which options are best for you.
A colonoscopy is the most well-known colorectal cancer screening. To schedule your colonoscopy, call one of our Marshall Health Network facilities below: