Make It the Month You Get Screened

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers — and one of the most treatable when found early. This March, take an important step for your health by scheduling your colorectal cancer screening. Early detection starts with you.  Call 435-644-4115 today to set up an appointment.  

For most adults, screening should begin at age 45. But for some, it may need to start much earlier.

When Should You Start Screening?

Age 45

Most adults at average risk should begin screening at 45 and continue through age 75 if in good health.

Age 40 — or Earlier

You may need to start before 45 if you have:

  • A family history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps
  • A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
  • Certain genetic syndromes (such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis)
  • A personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps

In higher-risk individuals, screening may begin in your 20s, 30s, or 40s, depending on your risk level.

If you are over 75, screening decisions should be individualized based on your overall health and screening history.

Family History Matters

You may need earlier and more frequent screening if:

  • A parent, sibling, or child was diagnosed before age 60
    OR
  • Two first-degree relatives were diagnosed at any age

Start screening at age 40, or 10 years earlier than the youngest diagnosis in your family — whichever comes first.

Colonoscopy is typically recommended every 5 years in these cases.

If your relative was diagnosed after age 60, you may still begin at age 45, but your provider can help determine the right plan for you.

Higher-Risk Medical Conditions

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

If you have long-standing ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s colitis:

  • Screening often begins 8–10 years after diagnosis
  • Colonoscopy is usually recommended every 1–3 years

Hereditary Syndromes

  • Lynch syndrome: Screening may begin in your early 20s
  • Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP): Screening may begin in the teenage years

These conditions require specialized care and personalized screening plans.

Know Your Screening Options

We offer multiple convenient screening methods:

  • Colonoscopy (every 10 years if normal)
  • Stool-based tests (every 1–3 years depending on type)
  • CT colonography (every 5 years)

Our team will help you choose the option that fits your health needs and lifestyle.

Don’t Wait If You Have Symptoms

Screening guidelines apply to people without symptoms.
If you experience any of the following, contact your provider right away:

  • Blood in your stool
  • Unexplained iron-deficiency anemia
  • Persistent changes in bowel habits
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Ongoing abdominal pain

A Simple Test Could Save Your Life

Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms in its early stages. Screening can detect precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer — or catch cancer early when treatment is most effective.

This March, during National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, prioritize your health.

Schedule your screening today.

Early detection starts with you.  Call 435-644-4115 today to set up an appointment.