Screening tests are used to identify diseases that don’t cause symptoms in a person. Diagnostic tests are used to determine the cause of symptoms when a person has symptoms. A precancerous polyp abnormal growth in the colon or rectum almost always causes colon cancer. Precancerous polyps can be detected by screening tests, which can be removed before they become cancerous. As part of the colonoscopy screening process, colorectal cancer can also be detected early, when it can be treated best.
Recommendations for screening
To prevent colorectal cancer and detect it early, it is critical to begin screening at age 45. According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, people aged 45 to 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer. Adults aged 76 to 85 should speak with their doctor about screenings. As a result of the Task Force’s recommendations, several strategies for screening for colorectal cancer are recommended, including stool tests, flexible sigmoidoscopies, colonoscopy screening, and virtual colonoscopies using CT colonography.
Screening: When Should I Start?
You should begin colorectal cancer screening soon after turning 45, then continue to get tested regularly after that. However, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or if you have a family history of more serious illnesses, you may need to get screened earlier or more often.
- Diseases of the intestines that cause inflammation, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- The presence of colorectal cancer or polyps in either the individual or their families.
- It can be caused by a cluster of genetic abnormalities, such as familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome, which are hereditary cancers not caused by polyps.
You may want to speak with your doctor if you believe you are at greater risk of colorectal cancer.
- Getting started with screening.
- Your best option for testing.
- Testing frequency.
Depending on the family history of cancer and the age at which they were diagnosed, screening recommendations vary for these people. A colonoscopy and not any other test may be required more frequently by those with a family history, while others may need to undergo one more often at an earlier age.
