What are the American Cancer Society guidelines for colorectal cancer screening?
Options for colorectal screening may be chosen based on individual risk, personal preference, and access. Average risk adults should begin screening at age 50 years. Use the guide below to help you discuss with your health care professional which ONE of the screening options below is best for you. Tests that Find Pre-Cancer AND Cancer: Colonoscopy – every 10 years Flexible sigmoidoscopy – every 5 years * Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography) – every 5 years * Double contrast barium – enema every 5 years * Tests that Mainly Find Cancer: Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) – every year ** Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) – every year ** Stool DNA test (sDNA) – ask health care professional ** * All abnormal virtual colonoscopy and double contrast barium enema results as well as positive Flexible sigmoidoscopy, FOBT, FIT or sDNA tests should be followed up by a colonoscopy. ** The multiple stool (fecal) take home test should be used. One test done by the doctor in the office is not adequate for
