How Often Should You Get a Colorectal Cancer Screening?

Colorectal cancer is no joke. According to the American Cancer Society, it's the third most common cancer in the United States, affecting both men and women. But here's the good news: it's also one of the most preventable types of cancer. How? Through regular screenings.

Let's discuss when and how often you should get checked.

Why Screening Matters

First, why should you care about colorectal cancer screening? Well, it could save your life. No exaggeration. These screenings can catch cancer early when it's most treatable. Even better, they can prevent cancer altogether by finding and removing precancerous polyps.

In places like Singapore colorectal cancer screening is highly encouraged to help reduce rising cancer rates.

When to Start Screening

So, when should you start getting screened? The answer varies based on several factors:

Low or Average Risk

If you're at low or average risk for colorectal cancer, you should start regular screenings at age 45. This is a change from the old recommendation of 50. Why the shift? Colorectal cancer rates are rising in younger adults.

High Risk

What type of cancer causes low hemoglobin? Are you at high risk? You might need to start earlier. Factors that put you in the high-risk category include:

• A family history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps
• A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
• Certain inherited syndromes (like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis)

If any of these apply to you, talk to your doctor. They'll help determine when you should start screening.

No matter your risk level, staying proactive about screenings is key to catching colorectal cancer early or preventing it altogether. By knowing your risk and following the recommended guidelines, you can take control of your health and reduce your chances of developing the disease.

How Often Should You Get Screened?

Now, here's the million-dollar question: how often should you get screened? The answer depends on the type of screening test you choose and your risk level.

Stool-Based Tests

These tests check your stool for signs of colorectal cancer and are less invasive than other options.

• FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test): This test checks for hidden blood in your stool, which can be a sign of cancer, and is recommended annually.
• gFOBT (Guaiac-based Fecal Occult Blood Test): Similar to FIT, this test detects blood in the stool but uses a different chemical process, and it should also be done once a year.
• MT-sDNA (Multi-target Stool DNA Test): This test looks for both hidden blood and DNA changes in stool that may indicate cancer or precancerous growths, and is recommended every three years.

Stool-based tests offer a convenient option for colorectal cancer screening, but they need to be done more frequently to maintain accuracy.

Visual Exams

These tests allow doctors to look inside your colon and rectum. They're more invasive but need to be done less frequently.

• Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon for polyps or cancer and is recommended every 10 years.
• CT Colonography: A CT colonography, also known as a virtual colonoscopy, uses CT scans to create images of the colon and rectum, and is advised every five years.
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible sigmoidoscopy examines the lower part of the colon using a flexible tube with a camera, and is recommended every five years.

Remember, these are guidelines for people at low or average risk. If you're at high risk, you might need more frequent screenings.

Choosing the Right Test

With so many options, how do you choose? Here are a few things to consider:

• Frequency: How often are you willing to be tested?
• Preparation: Some tests require more prep than others. Colonoscopies, for example, require a thorough bowel cleanse.
• Procedure: Are you comfortable with more invasive procedures?
• Follow-up: If a stool-based test comes back positive, you'll need a follow-up colonoscopy.

Talk to your doctor about which test is right for you. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option.

What If You're Over 75?

If you're over 75, screening recommendations get a bit trickier. Here's the breakdown:

• Ages 75-85: The decision to screen should be based on your overall health, screening history, personal preferences, and ongoing cancer care.
• Over 85: Routine screening is typically not recommended.

Again, these are general guidelines. Your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

Don't Skip Your Screenings

It's easy to put off screenings. Maybe you're busy, or maybe the idea of the test makes you uncomfortable. But don't let that stop you. Skipping screenings can have serious consequences.

Remember, colorectal cancer often doesn't cause symptoms in its early stages. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may have already spread. That's why regular screenings are so important—they can catch cancer before you even know it's there.

What If You Miss a Screening?

Life happens. If you missed your scheduled screening, don’t panic, but make sure to reschedule as soon as possible.

If you’re between screenings and notice any concerning symptoms—like blood in your stool, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss—contact your doctor right away.

Final Thoughts

Regular colorectal cancer screenings are essential for detecting the disease early or even preventing it by removing precancerous polyps. Regardless of your risk level, following the recommended screening schedule can make a big difference in your long-term health. Always consult with your doctor to determine the best approach for your individual situation.

So, when was your last colorectal cancer screening? If you're due (or overdue), it's time to make that appointment. You'll be glad you did.