Topic: Colonoscopy
« Back to Patient ResourcesColon Cancer Screening
Ryan J. Garry, M.D. FACS | Gastroenterology and HepatologyMany people worry about having a colonoscopy, but the procedure is much easier than you think, and it can help catch cancer early.
UPDATE February 17, 2022:
Most people should begin screening for colorectal cancer soon after turning 45, then continue getting screened at regular intervals. However, you may need to be tested earlier than 45, or more often than other people, if you have—
- Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps.
- A genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)external icon or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome).
If you think you are at increased risk for colorectal cancer, speak with your doctor about—
- When to begin screening.
- Which test is right for you.
- How often to get tested.
Content source: Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention