Colon Cancer Screening

Colon cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented and detected through early diagnostic screenings. Colorectal cancer often begins with the formation of polyps in the colon – these polyps are small, rounded growths that extend from the colon wall and are attached by a narrower “stalk” of tissue. Polyps themselves are harmless, but some may develop into cancer if not removed. Since polyps and early-stage colon cancer are “silent” (producing no symptoms), screening procedures are the only means of detecting and treating them. Colon cancer screening should begin at 50 for most people; however, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, screenings could start as early as 40. Most screenings involve a colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FOBT), flexible sigmoidoscopy or a stool DNA test. Your doctor will discuss what screening is best for you.