You may see blood in your stool, changes in bowel habits, or lose weight without trying. However, early stages often have no symptoms.
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What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. It often begins as small growths called polyps on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While most polyps are harmless, some can develop into cancer over time.
This year, more than 50,000 people in the U.S. will lose their lives to colorectal cancer. Many of these lives could have been saved. If colorectal cancer is found early, 9 out of 10 people survive.
The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk start regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45.
Talk with your provider today
If you’re 45 or older, it’s time to get tested for colorectal cancer. Contact your provider to find out which test is right for you.
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What are the warning signs of colorectal cancer?
Below is a list of common symptoms of colorectal cancer. These symptoms can also be caused by less serious conditions. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about them.
- Changes in bowel habits:
- Persistent diarrhea or constipation
- A change in the consistency of your stool
- Narrow or ribbon-like stools that last more than a few days
- Blood in or on your stool:
- Bright red or very dark blood
- Blood on the toilet paper or in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss:
- Losing weight without changing your diet or exercise routine
- Persistent stomach discomfort:
- Cramps, gas, or pain
- Feeling like your bowel doesn't empty completely
- Fatigue or weakness:
- Often due to blood loss over time, which can lead to low iron levels
How to check for colorectal cancer
Screening helps catch colorectal cancer early, when it’s easiest to treat. Here are two common ways to get checked:
- Colonoscopy: A doctor uses a tiny camera to look inside your colon to check for problems. Learn more below.
- Stool tests: These tests check your stool for hidden blood or changes in DNA. Learn more below
Most people should start screening at age 45. If you have a higher risk, you may need to start sooner or get tested more often. Talk to your provider today.
Colorectal cancer FAQs
Regular screening, a healthy diet, and staying active can help prevent colorectal cancer.
Your risk goes up as you get older. Family history and certain genetic conditions can also increase your risk.
It can catch cancer early when it’s easier to treat. It can also find polyps before they turn into cancer.
Most people start at 45. If you’re at higher risk, talk to your doctor about starting earlier.
Options include colonoscopy, stool tests, or CT scans.
It depends on the test. For colonoscopy, it’s usually every 10 years if you’re at average risk.
Some programs help pay for screening or offer it for free.
Yes, most screenings are safe. Some, like colonoscopies, have small risks. Your doctor can explain what to expect.
Colorectal cancer myths vs. facts
Myth: Colorectal cancer only affects older adults.
Fact: While more common in older adults, cases in younger individuals are rising.
Myth: You only need screening if you have symptoms.
Fact: Early colorectal cancer often has no symptoms. That is why regular screening is so important.
Myth: Preparation is difficult.
Fact: While prep a clear liquid diet and a laxative, today’s options are more tolerable and often flavored to help with the taste.
Myth: Colonoscopies are painful.
Fact: Most patients are asleep during the procedure and do not feel pain. Many don’t remember it afterward.
Myth: It’s embarrassing to get a colonoscopy.
Fact: Your care team will prioritize privacy and comfort and help you feel safe and respected.
Myth: A colonoscopy is the only screening option.
Fact: While it is the most effective screening tool available, there are alternatives like stool tests and virtual colonoscopies.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a test that lets a doctor look inside your colon.
The tube is gently put into your rectum and moved through your colon to where it starts. The colonoscope has a small camera and a light on it. This lets the doctor see if there are any problems inside.
It might sound a bit scary, but it’s not. You will get medicine before the procedure to help you sleep, so you won’t feel anything.
This test can save your life by finding issues early.
What is a stool test?
A stool test is a simple way to check for signs of colorectal cancer. You can usually do these tests at home with a kit your doctor gives you. If the test finds something unusual, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy to learn more.
There are different types of stool tests:
- FIT (fecal immunochemical test): This test looks for blood in your stool that you can’t see.
- FIT-DNA Test: This test checks for both hidden blood and changes in your stool’s DNA.
