Colorectal cancer screening involves various tests designed to detect signs of cancer or pre-cancerous polyps early, often before symptoms appear.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer Screening
Regular screening is a crucial step in preventing colorectal cancer or finding it at an early stage when it's most treatable. Different tests are available, varying in how they are performed and how often they are recommended. These tests look for blood in the stool, changes in DNA, or visual abnormalities within the colon and rectum.
Types of Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests
Based on common screening guidelines, the following are different types of tests used for colorectal cancer screening:
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) or Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
These are stool-based tests that check for tiny amounts of blood in the feces, which can be a sign of polyps or cancer.
- How often: Every year.
Stool DNA Test
This test examines stool for abnormal DNA markers that might indicate the presence of cancer or precancerous polyps. It also tests for blood.
- How often: Every 3 years.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
This visual exam uses a flexible, lighted tube to look at the lower part of the colon (the sigmoid colon and rectum). It can detect polyps or cancer in this area.
- How often: Every 5 years.
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)
This is a type of X-ray test that uses computed tomography (CT) scans to create detailed images of the colon and rectum. It allows doctors to look for polyps or cancer without inserting a scope into the entire colon.
- How often: Every 5 years.
Colonoscopy
This is a visual exam of the entire colon and rectum using a flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope. It allows the doctor to look for polyps or cancer throughout the colon and to remove most polyps found during the exam.
- How often: Every 10 years.
How Often Should You Get Screened?
The recommended frequency for screening depends on the type of test chosen, your personal risk factors, and your doctor's advice. The frequencies mentioned here reflect common guidelines:
| Screening Test Type | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) / FIT | Every year |
| Stool DNA Test | Every 3 years |
| Flexible Sigmoidoscopy | Every 5 years |
| CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy) | Every 5 years |
| Colonoscopy | Every 10 years |
It's essential to discuss with a healthcare provider which screening test is right for you and when you should begin and end screening.
