11 Doctor-Recommended Women's Health Screening Tests You Should Know

3. Colorectal Cancer Screening (Colonoscopy and alternatives)

Colorectal cancer screening looks for polyps and early cancers that usually have no symptoms. Current guidelines recommend starting screening at age 45 for average-risk adults. Colonoscopy every ten years is the standard option because it both finds and removes polyps, but stool-based tests such as FIT or stool DNA screens offer non-invasive alternatives that are done yearly or every few years depending on the test. If a test finds polyps, follow-up intervals shorten based on polyp type and number. Bowel prep is required for colonoscopy and is often the most important part of a successful test; follow instructions carefully for a clear exam. Discuss family history and any gastrointestinal symptoms with your provider, because a personal or family history of polyps or colorectal cancer can mean earlier or more frequent screening. If someone in your family had colorectal cancer at a young age, your clinician may suggest genetic counseling or earlier colonoscopy. Catching polyps early prevents cancer and saves lives.