Vital Signs: Screening for colorectal cancer

Not starting screening at 50

Question: What if I don’t have any symptoms?
Answer: Colorectal cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms early on.

Question: Is the test unpleasant or embarrassing?
Answer: There are several kinds of tests that can be done in the clinic or at home. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best option for you.

Question: Do I need to be screened if no one in my family had colorectal cancer?
Answer: Yes. Family history can put you at higher risk, but most colorectal cancers happen in people with no family history.

Healthcare Providers Can:

• Take advantage of any medical visit to tell patients they need to get screened starting at 50.
• Let patients know that there is more than one test option that can be done in the clinic or at home.
• Offer recommended test options with advice about each.
• Use reminder systems to notify patients when to get a test done and if they need follow-up tests.

Everyone Can:

• Learn about the six different screening test options.
• Talk to your doctor about the best test for you based on your preferences.
• Find out if you’re at higher risk than most people because of family history or other reasons.
• Ask about which tests are covered by insurance.
• Don’t wait: Use age 50 as your time to start screening to prevent colorectal cancer or find it early, when treatments work best.