Colorectal Screening and Prevention

Colorectal cancer or colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer deaths among adults in the U.S. When caught early, however, the disease is highly treatable and even curable.

Get screened for colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer doesn't always cause symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage. That's why regular screening is so important starting at age 45.

There are several different types of tests, including a colonoscopy screening as well as an at-home test called a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kit. At Sharp, we use the latest colonoscopy techniques to minimize discomfort and detect cancer at its earliest stages.

How to reduce your risk of colon cancer plus

Colorectal cancer screenings can detect cancer early, when it's most treatable and curable
Exercise, even minimal amounts of moderate exercise, reduces risk
Include more vegetables, fruits and whole grains in your diet
Minimize red meat and processed meat such as cold cuts, hot dogs or bacon
Stop tobacco use; smokers are more likely to develop colorectal cancer than non-smokers
Limit your alcohol intake to no more than 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women
Maintain a healthy weight

Risk factors of colon cancer plus

Most cases occur after age 50; while rarer in younger adults, occurrences are trending upward
Personal or family history of colorectal cancer
Diet high in red meat or processed meats
Smoking and alcohol use
Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
Hereditary genetic syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome
African-Americans are 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and 40% more likely to die from it than other races

Signs to watch out for plus

A persistent change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool
A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so
Rectal bleeding
Dark stools or blood in the stool
Cramping or abdominal (stomach) pain
Weakness and fatigue
Unintended weight loss

Safe to get care.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many people are choosing to skip regular health screenings, including for colon cancer. We want to assure you that your health and safety are our highest priority and extra safety precautions are in place to keep you, and our care teams, safe and healthy.

To set your mind at ease, we encourage you to talk to your doctor more about these safeguards.

Learn more about colon cancer screening at Sharp.