Colon Cancer Screening and Early Detection

Why is colon cancer screening so important?

Colon cancer screening is important because it helps detect colorectal cancer in the earliest stages and sometimes can prevent it from ever developing. Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer diagnosed today, but many of those cases could be prevented with screening.

A person’s lifetime risk of colon cancer is about 3-4%, with more than 100,000 people diagnosed with colon cancer every year. Overall, this number of cases has been steadily decreasing—most likely due to the increased compliance with colon cancer screening guidelines.

When colon cancer is found in its earliest stages—before it spreads to other areas—it is very treatable. The survival rate at five years for early-stage colon cancer is about 90%.

Detecting colon cancer early — colon cancer screening options

Sometimes, people put off a colon cancer screening because they aren’t aware of all the options available. If you have an average risk, talk with your doctor about the pros and cons of your choices, including stool-based tests, imaging tests and colonoscopies.

A colonoscopy remains the most recommended test because it can detect and prevent colon cancer. But what’s most important is that you talk with your doctor and get screened—no matter the screening option you choose.

If you have a colon cancer screening other than a colonoscopy, abnormal results should be checked using a colonoscopy procedure. You may also need a colonoscopy if you have any signs or symptoms of colon cancer.

Frequently asked questions