Who should get screened for colorectal cancer?

Everyone, most >50: Most people are considered "average risk" for colorectal cancer, and should begin screening @ 50, typically with a colonoscopy. Some people at increased risk, such as those with inflammatory bowel disease or a family history of colorectal cancer. These people may need screening at a younger age-generally 10 yrs earlier than the age when their relative got colon cancer. Talk w/ your doctor.

Every 50y/o in USA: Colon ca is the third most common (non-skin) cancer in the US. Screening may detect cancers well before they cause symptoms and lead to better outcomes. It is recommended to begin screening at age 50, unless one has a strong family history, in which case it should begin a decade earlier.

Colorectal Cancer: Otherwise healthy individuals should have a screening colonoscopy at age 50. Findings dictate subsequent followup. Individuals with a first degree relative with colon cancer should have their screening colonoscopy 10 years before the age of onset of the cancer in the relative who had cancer. Anyone with unexplained change in bowel habits, or rectal bleeding should consider colonoscopy.

Screening: Everyone starting at age 50. Those with famiky history of colon cancer or polyps should start at age 40

Can save your life: According to the cdc, the number of people dying from colorectal cancer is declining by about 3% a year. About half of the lives saved are thought to be due to increased screening (primarily colonoscopy). Simply put getting colorectal cancer screening could save your life.

Early detection: Most colon cancers develop from polyps that have atypical cells that progress to cancer. If these polyps are detected early they can be removed during colonoscopy exam, thus preventing cancer.

Because its common: Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States.

Colon cancer screeni: Because the precursor of colon cancer is an asymptomatic adenomatous polyp with a long precancerous phase. Removing these polyps prevents colon cancer. Once cancer develops and symptoms develop it is much more difficult to treat and in some cases too late