Colorectal cancer screening

Cancer prevention, screening and early detection programs save countless lives every year in the United States. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and women and the third-leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths in the United States.

The good news is that colorectal cancer can be prevented and is highly treatable; early diagnosis through regular screening is key. Colon cancer is a very common cancer. It is a serious disease and needs monitoring and screening.

Colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer; and screening tests also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults age 50 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. There are several screening test options. Talk to your doctor about which is right for you.

For more information on colorectal cancer and screening tests, visit the CDC's website.