Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations
Age and Frequency Guidelines
Individuals should begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 50 or 10 years earlier than the age at which their family member was diagnosed with the disease, whichever comes first.
For those ages 50 to 74 who are not at high risk, a stool test can be performed every two years.
High-Risk Individuals
Certain groups of people are considered high-risk for colorectal cancer and may need to start screening earlier:
First-Degree Relatives
Individuals with a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) who has had colorectal cancer should start screening 10 years earlier than the age of their relative's diagnosis.
Other Risk Factors
Other factors that can increase the risk of colorectal cancer include a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, certain genetic syndromes, and a family history of certain types of polyps.
Screening Methods
The recommended screening methods for colorectal cancer include:
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