“Colon cancer screening saves lives /Right Time / Right Test/ Right Now. Cancer does not Wait, Neither should you.”
– Dr. Bradford Jones, Arizona Digestive Health
Colon cancer screening is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your long-term health. It can help detect colon cancer early, when it is most treatable, and in many cases, it can prevent cancer altogether by finding and removing precancerous polyps.
Even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms, screening still matters. Colon cancer often develops quietly, without warning signs in its earliest stages. That is why screening is recommended based on age and risk, not based on how you feel.
Below is what every patient should know about colon cancer screening, including when to start, what your options are, and how to take the next step.
When should colon cancer screening start?
For most adults at average risk, screening begins at age 45. This recommendation was updated after research showed an increase in colorectal cancer cases in younger adults.
However, some patients may need to begin screening earlier than 45. You may be considered higher risk if you have:
- A family history of colon cancer or colon polyps
- A personal history of colon polyps
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Certain genetic conditions related to colorectal cancer risk
If you are unsure when you should start, your provider can help you determine the right timeline.
Why screening matters (even without symptoms)
One of the most common misconceptions about colon cancer is that you will “know” if something is wrong. In reality, colon cancer may not cause symptoms until it becomes more advanced.
Screening helps catch problems early, before they become serious, and can often stop cancer before it starts.
Colon cancer screening options: what are they?
Many patients assume screening automatically means a colonoscopy. While colonoscopy is the most comprehensive screening test, it is not the only option. Your provider will help recommend the best choice based on your health history, risk level, and preferences.
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy allows your physician to examine the entire colon and remove polyps during the same procedure.
Why patients choose it:
- It is the most thorough screening test
- Polyps can be removed immediately
- It is done less often when results are normal
What to know:
- It requires bowel prep the day before
- It is performed with sedation
- Most patients return to normal activities the next day
At-home stool-based tests
Some patients may be eligible for at-home screening tests that look for signs of blood or abnormal DNA in stool.
Why patients choose them:
- They can be done at home
- No sedation is needed
- No bowel prep is required
Important note:
If an at-home test comes back abnormal, a follow-up colonoscopy is required to evaluate the cause.
Your provider can help you understand whether an at-home test is appropriate for you.
What happens if polyps are found?
Polyps are common, especially as people get older. Most polyps are not cancer, but some can become cancer over time if they are not removed.
If polyps are found during a colonoscopy, they can often be removed right away. Removing polyps is one of the biggest reasons screening is considered preventive, not just diagnostic.
What if you are nervous about screening?
It is completely normal to feel anxious or unsure. Many patients delay screening because they feel embarrassed, overwhelmed, or worried about discomfort.
The good news is that your care team is here to help you feel informed and supported. You can ask questions, discuss your options, and choose a screening plan that feels manageable and right for you.
The most important thing: get screened on time
There is no “perfect” screening test for everyone. The best screening test is the one you will complete on time and consistently.
Colon cancer screening saves lives. It also provides peace of mind and helps you stay proactive about your health.
Ready to take the next step?
If you are 45 or older, or if you have a family history or symptoms that concern you, we encourage you to schedule a visit to discuss your screening options.
Talk with an Arizona Digestive Health physician today to create a screening plan that fits your needs and helps protect your health.
