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Home > Topic > Conditions > Colorectal Cancer (CRC)
Check out AGA’s informative videos on colorectal cancer screening. Learn about why it’s important to get screened, screening options and tips to ensure a high-quality colonoscopy.
Colorectal cancer mostly starts with no symptoms at all, which is why routine screening beginning at age 50 for all normal-risk individuals is so important.
Over time, though, there are a number of warning signs that can happen, such as:
I feel fine. Why not wait for these symptoms to develop, rather than have a colonoscopy?
If you are having any of the above symptoms, especially if you are at risk of colorectal cancer, call your gastroenterologist or primary-care physician right away. He or she will ask questions about your symptoms and figure out the best diagnostic test for you.
You may be at normal or greater risk for colorectal cancer, based on your age, personal medical history and family medical history.
You are at normal risk for colorectal cancer if you are age 50 or older and have none of these risk factors:
Talk to your doctor about your risk factors and when it is best to start screening.
There are many choices of tests to get screened for colorectal cancer (CRC). Talk to your gastroenterologist to find out which test is best for you.
How often do you need a colonoscopy?
How do you get ready for a colonoscopy?
How often do you need a FIT test?
How do you get ready for a FIT test?
How do you get ready for a FOBT test?
How do you get ready for a Cologuard test?
How often do you need a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
How do you get ready for a flexible sigmoidoscopy?
How often do you need a CT colonography?
How do you get ready for a CT colonography?
Please work with your doctor to determine the best screening options for you. Be open and honest about symptoms, concerns and questions. Remember, colorectal cancer screening has been demonstrated to be lifesaving. No butts about it: Get screened!
Along with getting tested regularly, healthy life choices are usually recommended as the best way to lower your risk of colorectal cancer.
Here’s how you can help lower your risk:
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© 2020 American Gastroenterological Association
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