And neither should you. The earlier colon cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. Research shows that new cases of colorectal cancer are occurring at an increasing rate among younger adults. With advancements in technology and a variety of screening options, there's no excuse to delay. If you're 45 or older, prioritize your health and talk to us about your colon cancer risk.
Are you at risk for colon cancer?
Colon cancer affects men and women equally, and two-thirds of those diagnosed have no family history. While the exact cause of colorectal cancer remains unknown, there are proven risk factors for the disease. Some can be avoided with lifestyle changes, but there are some you can't prevent. Knowing your colon cancer risk is an important part of determining a screening schedule that's personalized to you.
Colon screening can't wait.
Early detection saves lives, and screening is recommended at age of 45 for everyone. While a colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colon cancer detection, other options may be available depending on your age and colon cancer risk, including CT virtual colonoscopy, Cologuard stool DNA screening and fecal immunochemical test, or FIT.
Colon cancer care made personal.
From colon cancer screening and prevention to diagnosis, treatment and survivorship, you can be sure you’re receiving the care you need. We bring the knowledge of hundreds of cancer specialists — and the experience of treating more than a million patients — to your community. Our care teams specialize in colon cancer, and if needed, we connect you to highly specialized care at Mayo Clinic.