25 Mar Colorectal Cancer Recommended Screening Age Lowered to Age 45.

The American Cancer Society, the U.S Preventive Services Task Force, and the U.S Multisociety Task Force on Colorectal Cancer have all recently updated their screening guidelines to recommend that routine colorectal cancer screenings begin at age 45 instead of age 50. You might also know this as colon cancer screening. The update is prompted by the alarming rise in deaths from colorectal cancer among younger adults. 

What is a screening test? 

Screening tests are used to detect an illness before someone has any symptoms. There are various types of screening tests used to detect colorectal cancer. 

Two of the most common types of tests are stool tests and colonoscopies.

• A stool test looks for hidden blood in the stool. This is a non-invasive procedure.
• During a colonoscopy, the patient is usually sedated while a flexible tube is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera at the tip of the tube allows the doctor to view the inside of the entire colon. If polyps are present, the doctor can remove them during the colonoscopy.

Kheir Clinic can help you decide which test is right for you based on your individual needs and coverage. If you need a referral, we can help you find a free or low-cost option. 

Why is screening important? 

The colon and rectum help your body digest the food you eat, and hold solid waste until it passes out of your body. The majority of colorectal cancers start with abnormal growths in the colon or rectum called ‘polyps’. Screening helps detect these polyps early before they become cancerous. Screening also helps detect cancer in the early stages, when treatment is most effective. 

What can you do to prevent colorectal cancer? 

The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened. Unfortunately, the signs of colorectal cancer aren’t always obvious and someone can have colorectal cancer without knowing it. If there are symptoms present, the most common include: 

• A change in bowel habits 
• Blood in stool 
• Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way
• Abdominal pain, aches, or cramps that don’t seem to go away 
• Unexplained weight loss 

If you are 45 years old or older, talk to your doctor about getting screened. Colorectal cancer screening might seem embarrassing, but it can save your life. Don’t die of embarrassment!

Kheir Clinic can help you make your free or low-cost preventative screening appointment today. 

For existing patients, please make an appointment by calling us at: 

English – 213-235-2500

Korean – 213-235-2800

Spanish – 213-235-1200

Thai – 213-296-0120

For new patients: 

Text – 213-632-5521