A colonoscopy allows doctors to view your colon using a thin tube and tiny camera. It's recommended every 10 years.
A flexible sigmoidoscopy is like a partial colonoscopy that allows doctors to view only the lower part of the colon. This procedure's recommended every five years and is easier and quicker than a colonoscopy and can be done with or without sedation.
A CT colonography takes a 3D x-ray of the entire colon and is recommended every five years
Stool tests check for blood or abnormal DNA markers that may signify the presence of a colorectal cancer — they're recommended every one to three years
Everyone 45 and older should get screened for colorectal cancer
People in good health and with good life expectancy (>10 years) should continue colorectal cancer screening through age 75
Anyone 76 to 84 and older should have a discussion with their doctor whether to continue screening
People over 85 should no longer get screened for colorectal cancer
Approximately 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime — significantly less than breast or prostate cancer. Due to increased screening, overall mortality rates have declined, but both new cases and deaths among younger people have steadily increased.
Guidelines
Test or procedure
Colorectal Cancer