Colon Cancer
Men and women of average risk should begin colon screenings at age 45.
Colon cancer occurs when growths known as “polyps” form in the colon, which is the part of the body that absorbs water from solid waste. According to the American Cancer Society, it’s the third-most-common cancer in the U.S. — and the third-most deadly. But almost all colon cancers can be prevented with early screening.
Screening
When you should be screened.
As with many cancers, there are usually no symptoms of the early stages of colon cancer.
Men and Women 45 and Older
Screening or Vaccine
FIT Test
How Often
Annually
Screening or Vaccine
Colonoscopy
How Often
Every 10 years
Screening or Vaccine
Cologuard
How Often
Every 3 years
Per Screening for Life guidelines dated July 2021.
Watch and learn more.
Watch the videos below for more in-depth details about colorectal cancer.
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Colorectal cancer is very preventable with the right treatment and the right analysis.
Get screening support.
Need help paying for it?
Screening for Life is a program that can help pay for a screening if you can’t.
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What causes colon cancer?
Below are factors that can put men and women at greater risk for colon cancer. If any apply to you, talk with your health care provider and consider getting screened before age 45.
Family history of colon cancer
Type 2 diabetes
Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease
Obesity
Lynch syndrome
History of colorectal adenomatous polyps
Processed- and red-meat consumption
Smoking
Consuming alcohol
More than 15 drinks per week (for men) or more than eight drinks per week (for women)
Drink more sweetened beverages and less milk
African American heritage
Colon Cancer Symptoms
These symptoms could indicate you have colon cancer:
Colorectal cancer does not always cause symptoms, especially at first. If symptoms do appear, it is important to talk with a health care provider rather than assuming they will go away on their own.
Some of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, but only a medical evaluation can tell you what is actually causing them. If something changes and stays changed, it is worth following up.
Unexplained rectal bleeding
Blood in the stool
Weakness and fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Abdominal pain
Recent and persistent changes in bowel habits
Iron-deficiency anemia
Constant feeling that you need to have a bowel movement
If you have any of these symptoms, talk with your health care provider as soon as possible.
Symptoms can be easy to miss
Polyps and early colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms at all. Screening can find abnormal growths before they turn into cancer, or find cancer earlier when treatment works better.
For most adults, routine colorectal cancer screening starts at age 45. If you are 45 or older and not up to date, this is the time to schedule it.
See Screening GuidelinesAsk about earlier screening if you are higher risk
Some people need a different screening plan. Talk with your provider if any of these apply to you:
- Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps
- A genetic syndrome such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
Treatment and Support
Treatment looks different for everyone.
Find personalized support, understand your options, and connect with care teams.
If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, Cancer Care Coordinators can help you find the services you need, when you need them. The services of these specially trained health professionals are free of charge to all Delawareans.
Learn MoreFree cancer treatment is available for up to two years to all Delaware residents who can’t afford to pay for it.
Learn MoreLearn how cancer stages are determined and what each stage means for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.
Learn MoreExplore clinical trial options that may offer access to cutting-edge therapies and treatments.
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Nurse Navigators
Delaware nurse navigators can help you get screened for cancer.
Whether you have insurance or not, Delaware nurse navigators can help you get screened for cancer and provide follow-up help when you get your results. Choose from the list below to call a nurse navigator directly between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., or request a callback online.
or call directly between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Surviving Cancer
Tips for life after diagnosis.
We offer a variety of tools, programs, and resources to support healthy living after diagnosis.
Eating Well
Find nutrition guidance on the road to recovery.
Learn MoreExercising
Discover how an active routine can give you the best chance of recovery.
Learn MoreSelf-Management Program
Build skills to manage your health day to day.
Learn MoreSupport Groups
Talk with others about your cancer to guide choices and find support.
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