Colon Cancerscreening - Chapter 7 Colon Cancer Whos At Risk: Cancer
Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School
Colon cancer-Screening
If you are over age 50, the single most important step you can take to reduce your chances of developing colon cancer is to undergo regular screenings. Not only does screening detect colon cancer in its earliest stages when it is most readily treated, but it can also prevent the disease by identifying abnormal growths, known as polyps, which the doctor can remove before they develop into cancer.
Some of these screening tests are uncomfortable and in some instances you will need to use a laxative beforehand so the colon is completely clean and any abnormal growths can be seen more clearly.
| Most commonly recommended methods to screen for colon cancer | |
| How often and when: | Screening method recommended: |
| Every year beginning at age 50 |
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| Every five years beginning at age 50 |
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| Last updated: | May 01, 2008 |
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Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.
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