Colorectal cancer occurs in both men and women of every ethnic and racial background. It is typically found in adults age 45 and older, but in certain instances may occur in younger individuals as well. The risk for developing colorectal cancer increases as you age.

Since colorectal cancer can begin with no symptoms, it’s essential to keep up with regular colorectal cancer screenings beginning at age 45. These screenings allow your physician to detect cancer in its earliest stages, or even help prevent it by removing polyps in the colon before they can develop into cancer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some populations may be at a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. You may be at a higher risk than average if:

• You or a close relative have had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer.
• You have inflammatory bowel disease.
• You have a genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer.

Individuals with these risk factors may need earlier or more frequent tests — or may need to begin receiving screenings earlier — than others.

Talk to your physician about when to begin screening and how often you should be tested.

Speak with your primary care provider about any family history of colorectal cancer that you may have, and ask about whether or not you should be screened.

Time for your colonoscopy?

Most people begin receiving a regular colonoscopy at age 45. Speak with your doctor to see if it’s time for your colonoscopy. You may qualify for our direct-access colonoscopy, which allows you to fast-track your screening by scheduling your colonoscopy without the need for a pre-procedure appointment.

To schedule an appointment, call 1-833-262-6793.

Learn more about colorectal cancer and the benefits of receiving a colonoscopy at tanner.org/colonoscopy.