Colon Cancer Screening Starts at Age 45: What You Need to Know

Colon cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer death in Delaware as well as in the U.S. But it is also one of the most preventable cancers. Most colon cancers can be stopped before they start — through screening.

Many people still think screening begins at 50. That’s no longer true. If you are 45 or older, it’s time to talk to your health care provider about your screening options.

What Is Colon Cancer?

According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer begins as small growths called polyps in the colon or rectum. Not all polyps turn into cancer — but some do. Screening finds these polyps early so that they can be removed before they become cancerous.

Even more important: Most people with early-stage colon cancer have no symptoms. Screening is often how it’s first found.

There are some symptoms that could suggest colon cancer:

·       Blood in stool

·       Ongoing stomach pain

·       Changes in bowel habits

·       Unexplained weight loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your health care provider right away — don’t wait for your screening age.

Who Should Get Screened?

Age 45 and older: If you are 45 or older and at average risk, you should be screened.

Under 45? You may need to get screened earlier if you:

·      Have a family history of colon cancer

·      Have inflammatory bowel disease

·      Have certain genetic conditions

·      Have diabetes

·      Are African American (higher rates of colorectal cancer)

·      Have lifestyle risk factors such as smoking, obesity, low physical activity, or diets high in red and processed meats

If you’re not sure about your risk, talk to your health care provider.

Three Ways to Screen

A colonoscopy is the primary and most complete test, but there are options. The best test is the one you complete.

A colonoscopy is done at a medical facility. The physician examines the entire colon, and polyps can be removed during the procedure. A colonoscopy is usually needed every 10 years if results are normal.

A FIT (fecal immunochemical test) is done at home. It checks for blood in the stool and should be done every year.

A stool DNA test (Cologuard) is done at home. It looks for blood and abnormal DNA. It’s recommended every one to three years.

If a stool test shows an abnormal result, a colonoscopy is needed next. Talk to your health care provider about which option is right for you.

Why Screening Matters in Delaware

Colon cancer rates are rising in adults under 50 nationwide. In Delaware, colon cancer remains one of the top causes of cancer death. Early detection saves lives. When caught early, colon cancer is highly treatable. Screening can prevent cancer by removing polyps before they turn cancerous.

How to Lower Your Risk

Screening is the most powerful tool — but healthy habits also help reduce risk:

·      Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

·      Limit red and processed meats.

·      Stay physically active.

·      Maintain a healthy weight.

·      Avoid tobacco.

·      Limit alcohol.

Small steps make a difference.

Need Help Paying for Screening?

Most insurance plans cover colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may qualify for a free screening through Delaware’s Screening for Life Program. Call 211 to learn more about eligibility and available services.

Take the Next Step

If you are 45 or older, don’t wait.

·      Call your health care provider.

·      Call 211.

·      Visit HealthyDelaware.org/Colon.

Early screening detects colon cancer when it’s most treatable — and can even prevent it. And remember, get screened starting at age 45.