Colorectal Cancer Screening: Why Early Detection Saves Lives
Colorectal cancer screening can save lives — even if you feel perfectly healthy. Colorectal cancer often begins as a small polyp with no noticeable symptoms. By the time symptoms appear, the disease may already be advanced. The good news is that when caught early, colorectal cancer has a greater than 90% five-year survival rate.
If you are 45 or older, now is the time to speak with a provider about screening. You can find a provider near you or schedule an appointment online to get started.
Watch our Healthy Families interview with Deanna Padilla, NP, where she explains why early detection matters and how simple at-home testing can help protect your health.
Why Is Early Detection So Important?
Colorectal cancer typically starts as a small, noncancerous polyp in the colon or rectum. Over time, some polyps can develop into cancer. Because these polyps rarely cause pain or obvious warning signs, screening is the only reliable way to detect and remove them early.
When detected early:
- Treatment is often simpler
- Survival rates are significantly higher
- Polyps can be removed before they become cancerous
Routine screening is part of comprehensive preventive care services and helps protect your long-term health.
At What Age Should You Start Colorectal Cancer Screening?
The recommended starting age for average-risk adults is now 45 years old. Guidelines were updated after an increase in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults.
You may need earlier or more frequent screening if you:
- Have a first-degree family member (parent, sibling, or child) with colon cancer
- Have inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis
- Have a history of IBS or diverticulitis
- Are experiencing symptoms like rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss
If you are unsure about your risk level, connect with a primary care provider to review your personal and family health history.
You can also find a health center location near you to discuss screening options in person.
What Are My Screening Options?
Colonoscopy (Gold Standard)
A colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. During the procedure, providers examine the entire colon and can remove polyps at the same time. This both detects and prevents cancer.
Cologuard At-Home Test
For adults at average risk, Cologuard offers a convenient, noninvasive screening option. This FDA-approved test detects both hidden blood and DNA markers associated with colorectal cancer.
Benefits of Cologuard include:
- Completed at home
- No bowel prep
- No sedation
- No special diet
- Results valid for three years
You receive a discreet kit at home, collect a stool sample, and mail it back. Your provider receives the results and discusses next steps if needed.
If you have questions about eligibility, visit one of our Omni Family Health locations or speak with your provider.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Cologuard?
Cologuard is recommended for adults age 45 and older who are considered average risk.
Cologuard is not recommended if you:
- Have a family history of colon cancer
- Have inflammatory bowel disease
- Have symptoms
- Have previously had colon polyps or colorectal cancer
Higher-risk patients should undergo colonoscopy instead, as it allows direct visualization and removal of polyps.
What Happens If a Cologuard Test Is Positive?
A positive Cologuard result does not mean you have cancer. It simply means that something abnormal was detected and requires further evaluation.
Think of it like a check engine light. The next step is typically a colonoscopy to determine whether polyps or cancer are present. Acting quickly is important because polyps are much easier to treat when they are small.
If you receive a positive result, schedule a follow-up appointment right away to discuss next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are 45 or older, you should begin screening. Your provider can help determine whether you qualify for Cologuard or should have a colonoscopy.
Yes. Most early colorectal cancers and polyps cause no symptoms. That is why screening is so important.
Cologuard is highly accurate for average-risk adults and detects both blood and abnormal DNA markers. However, colonoscopy remains the gold standard because it allows direct removal of polyps.
Every three years for average-risk adults, unless your provider recommends otherwise.
No. It means further testing, typically a colonoscopy, is needed.
Take the Next Step
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early. If you are 45 or older — or have risk factors — now is the time to act.
You can:
Find a provider
Find a location
Schedule an appointment
Screening works best when you feel healthy. Don’t wait.
Additional External Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Colorectal Cancer
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal
American Cancer Society – Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines
https://www.cancer.org
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force – Screening Recommendations
https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org
Cologuard Official Website
https://www.cologuard.com