When To Start Getting Screened for Colorectal Cancer Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States when men and women are combined. However, regular screening can find colorectal cancer when it is small, hasn’t spread, and might be easier to treat. Some types of screening can also help find and remove pre-cancerous growths called polyps before they have a chance to turn into cancer. The American Cancer Society (ACS) has guidelines for colorectal cancer screening and recommends people at average risk for colorectal cancer begin screening at age 45. In the most recent guideline update, ACS lowered the age to start screening because studies show rates of colorectal cancer among people younger than 50 are on the rise. ACS experts have determined that screening starting at 45 could help save more lives. Screening recommendations for those at average risk for colorectal cancer • People at average risk should start regular screening at age 45. • People who are in good health and expected to live at least more 10 years should continue regular screening through the age of 75. • People ages 76 through 85 should decide with their health care provider whether to continue to get screened. This should be based on personal preferences, prior screening results, overall health and how long they are expected to live. • People over 85 should no longer get screened for colorectal cancer. Screening for people at higher risk for colorectal cancer People at higher risk for colorectal cancer may need to start screening before age 45. They may also need to be screened more often or get specific tests. People at higher risk are those with • A strong family history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps • A personal history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps • A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease) • A family history of a hereditary syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syn drome • A history of radiation to the abdomen (belly) or pelvis to treat a prior cancer
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