Colon cancer: Which screening test should I have?
You may want to have a say in this decision, or you may simply want to follow your doctor's recommendation. Either way, this information will help you understand what your choices are so that you can talk to your doctor about them.
Colon cancer: Which screening test should I have?
Get the facts
Key points to remember
- Screening tests find health problems early,
before symptoms appear. Regular testing to find colon cancer early is very
important because as soon as there are symptoms, it's usually too late to cure
colon cancer.
- Regular testing greatly lowers your risk of dying
from colon cancer.
- The two main types of tests are:
- Those that mostly find signs of colon cancer (stool
tests).
- Those that can also prevent colon cancer by finding
polypsbefore they turn into
cancer (sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy). And if you have a sigmoidoscopy or
colonoscopy, any polyps that are found can be removed during the test.
- Routine testing is recommended for everyone age 50 and older
who has a normal risk for colon cancer. People with a higher risk, such as
African Americans and people with a strong family history of colon cancer,
should be tested sooner.
FAQs
Colorectal cancer
happens when cells that are not normal grow in your
colon or rectum. Most people just call it "colon cancer."
These
cancers usually begin as
polyps, which are growths attached to the inside of
the colon or rectum. Colon polyps are common, and most of them do not turn into
cancer. Polyps are found during some screening tests. And polyps found during a
colonoscopy or
sigmoidoscopy can be removed at the same time.
When colon
cancer is found early through screening tests, it is easily treated and often
cured.
But because so few people are screened, colon cancer is
usually not found early, and it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in
the United States.1
According to the
American Cancer Society, if everyone were tested, tens of thousands of lives
could be saved each year.
A family
history of colon cancer makes you more likely to get it. You will need to be
screened at an earlier age—and have more frequent screening—than other people
if:
- You have a close relative with colon cancer. You are more likely to get colon cancer if:
- One of your parents, brothers, sisters, or children had it
before the age of 60.
- Two or more of your parents, brothers,
sisters, or children has had it at any age.
- You have a family history of certain colon problems, such as
familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or
hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC). Most
people who inherit these conditions will get colon cancer if they are not
screened and treated.
Stool tests involve sending
some of your stool to a lab for testing to see if there is evidence of cancer.
They don't help prevent colon cancer, but they do help find it early, when it
is more treatable.
Stool tests need to be done once a year to find
colon cancer as early as possible. These tests can usually be done in the
privacy of your home.
There are three types of stool
tests:
- Fecal occult blood test (FOBT). This is the most common
stool test. You put tiny samples of your stool on a special card or cloth and
send it to a lab. The lab uses certain chemicals to find blood that you can't
see with the naked eye. FOBT tests don't cost much.
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT). This is
a newer test that is a little easier to do at home. It is also costs
more.
- Stool DNA test (sDNA).This is the
newest stool test. It looks for changes in DNA (genetic material) in the stool.
It costs the most.
People ages 50 to 80 who have an FOBT every year are less
likely to die of colon cancer than people who do not have regular screening
tests.2
If you can't or won't go to the
doctor to get an at-home stool test, you can check your local drugstore for an
over-the-counter brand. But you may feel better if you talk to your doctor
about what the test results mean.
Risks of stool tests
There is no risk involved in the actual use of a
stool test. But there are some things you need to think about:
- Blood in the stool can be a sign of colon cancer, but it's more
often caused by something else, such as hemorrhoids, ulcers, or taking aspirin.
These other conditions can cause a "positive" result even when you don't have
cancer.
- If your test is positive, you will probably need to have a
colonoscopy.
- Unlike other tests, stool tests don't help prevent cancer by
finding colon polyps before they turn into cancer. Stool tests mostly find
cancer that is already present.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy (say "sig-moy-DAW-skuh-pee") is
a test that lets your doctor look at the inside of the lower part of your
colon. The doctor looks through a lighted tube that
can bend around the corners of the colon.
With this test, the
doctor can find
polyps in the lower part of your colon and remove
them. Polyps are growths inside the colon that can turn into colon cancer.
When used to screen for colon cancer, this test is usually done
every 5 years.
Getting ready for a sigmoidoscopy involves
cleaning out the colon:
- For 1 to 2 days before the test, you may be on a
clear liquid diet.
- You will likely have
an
enema before the test.
This test usually takes 5 to 15 minutes, or slightly longer if polyps are
found and removed.
Risks of sigmoidoscopy
There is very little risk of problems from
having a sigmoidoscopy.
- There is a slight chance of piercing the
colon (perforation) or causing severe bleeding by damaging the wall of the
colon. But this is rare.
- There is also a slight chance of a colon
infection (very rare).
A sigmoidoscopy only looks at the lower part of your
colon, which is where most polyps grow. But sometimes polyps grow in the upper
part of your colon, and they would not be seen with this test.
If
your doctor finds polyps during a sigmoidoscopy, you may need to have a
colonoscopy to see if there are more polyps farther up in your colon.
Colonoscopy
(say "koh-luh-NAW-skuh-pee") is a test that lets your doctor look at the inside
of your entire
colon. The doctor looks through a lighted tube that
can bend around the corners of the colon.
With this test, the
doctor can find and remove
polyps, which are growths inside the colon that can
turn into colon cancer.
When used as a screening test for colon
cancer, this test is usually done every 10 years. It may be done more often if
your risk is higher than average.
Getting ready for a colonoscopy
involves a very thorough cleansing of the colon, which must be completely
empty:
- For 1 to 2 days before the test, you will be
on a
clear liquid diet.
- On the night before
the test, your doctor may have you take a prescription laxative tablet or drink
a laxative solution. This will make you use the bathroom often.
You may given
medicine to help you relax. Many people don't even
remember the test afterward because they are so relaxed.
The test
usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, but it may take longer if polyps are found and
removed.
Risks of colonoscopy
The scope or a small tool may tear the lining of the colon or cause
bleeding. Although these problems are rare, they happen more often with
colonoscopy than with sigmoidoscopy.
Virtual colonoscopy
A
virtual colonoscopy blows air into your colon instead
of inserting a long tube. The air expands your colon so that it is easier to
see on an X-ray. This test is not yet widely available.
Getting
ready for a virtual colonoscopy involves the same thorough cleansing of the
colon that is needed for a regular colonoscopy:
- For 1 to 2 days before the test, you will be
on a
clear liquid diet.
- On the night before
the test, your doctor may have you take a prescription laxative tablet or drink
a laxative solution. This will make you use the bathroom often.
Virtual colonoscopy is still being studied to see if it
works as well as a regular colonoscopy. If polyps are found, you will need a
regular colonoscopy to have them removed.
People 50 and older at average risk should have one of the following tests:| Test | How often? |
|---|
Stool
test | Every
year* |
|
Sigmoidoscopy# | Every 5
years |
|
Colonoscopy | Every 10
years |
| |
Virtual
colonoscopy | Possibly every 5
years |
*Experts have not
yet set guidelines for how often a person should have the stool DNA
test. #One group recommends combining a
stool test every 3 years with a sigmoidoscopy every 5 years. |
Recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force:
- People ages 50 to 75 should have a fecal occult blood test
(FOBT), sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy.
- Some people older than 75
may benefit from screening tests. Others may not. Talk to your doctor about
continuing testing for colon cancer after age 75.
Recommendations from other groups:
- The American Cancer Society (ACS), the American
Gastroenterological Association (AGA), and the American College of
Gastroenterologists (ACG) recommend routine testing for people age 50 and older
who have a normal risk for colon cancer. People with a higher risk, such as
African Americans and people with a strong family history of colon cancer,
should be tested sooner. Talk to your doctor about when you should be tested.
Compare your options
| | | |
|---|
What is usually involved? |
| |
What are the benefits? |
| |
What are the risks and side effects? |
| |
Stool
testStool test- It's done at home.
- You take samples of your stools and mail them to a lab.
- It's easy to do at home.
- It's cheaper than other tests.
- You don't need to use laxatives or enemas.
- People ages 50 to 80 who have a stool test every year are less
likely to die of colon cancer than people who do not have regular stool
tests.2
- A "positive" result
means other tests will be needed.
Flexible sigmoidoscopyFlexible sigmoidoscopy- It's done in a doctor's
office, clinic, or hospital.
- It takes 5 to 15 minutes, or slightly longer if polyps are
removed.
- You don't have to do it
as often as a stool test.
- It finds polyps before they turn into
cancer.
- Polyps can often be removed during the test.
- It has fewer risks than colonoscopy.
- This test
only sees the lower part of colon.
- Rare problems include infection and piercing the colon
(perforation).
ColonoscopyColonoscopy- It's done in a doctor's office,
clinic, or hospital.
- You use laxatives to clean out your bowels.
- It takes 30 to 45 minutes, or slightly longer if polyps are
removed.
- You are given drugs to relax. You may not remember the test at
all.
- You don't have to do it as often as
other tests.
- It finds polyps before they turn into cancer.
- Polyps
can be removed during the test.
- This test looks at your entire colon.
- It costs more than
other tests.
- Bleeding problems and piercing the colon are rare but are more
common than with sigmoidoscopy.
Personal stories
Are you interested in what others decided to do? Many people have faced this decision. These personal stories may help you decide.
My
grandmother died of colon cancer, so I think I am going to have a colonoscopy.
I know that colonoscopy may have slightly greater risks of complications than a
sigmoidoscopy. However, I would rather have a colonoscopy to make sure I don't
have cancer.
I've had a fecal occult blood test every
year, and now I'm going to have a sigmoidoscopy. I am a little worried and
embarrassed about having a sigmoidoscopy, but I would rather be a little
embarrassed than have colon cancer.
If I have
to have an uncomfortable, embarrassing test, I would rather have one every 10
years than have one every 5 years. Besides, a colonoscopy examines the entire
colon, not just part of it.
A
sigmoidoscopy is a good way for my doctor to look for signs of cancer. I know
it can't be used to look at the whole colon, but I feel comfortable that it
will detect any problems.
No one in my family has ever had colorectal
cancer. I try to eat a balanced diet and get plenty of exercise. I am going to
do yearly fecal occult blood tests. I am more comfortable doing that than
having other more costly procedures.
My mother
has had colon cancer and my sister was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. I
plan to have a colonoscopy and ask my doctor how frequently I should repeat the
test. I am worried about my family history and want to do everything I can to
avoid colorectal cancer.
What matters most to you?
Your personal feelings are just as important as the medical facts. Think about what matters most to you in this decision, and show how you feel about the following statements.
I'm afraid of a test that involves putting anything into my colon.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I want to have a test that is going to see as much as possible.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
It’s important to me to do testing at home, in private.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I don’t like the idea of having to clean out my bowels before the test.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I don’t want to miss any work for this test.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I don’t want to have two tests. I want my doctor to remove any polyps right away.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I’m worried about the cost of the tests.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
My other important reasons:
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
Where are you leaning now?
Now that you've thought about the facts and your feelings, you may have a general idea of where you stand on this decision. Show which way you are leaning right now.
Using stool test
NOT using stool test
Leaning toward
Undecided
Leaning toward
Using sigmoidoscopy
NOT using sigmoidoscopy
Leaning toward
Undecided
Leaning toward
Using colonoscopy
NOT using colonoscopy
Leaning toward
Undecided
Leaning toward
What else do you need to make your decision?
1.
Will having regular screening tests greatly lower your chances of dying from colon cancer?
2.
Should all adults have regular colon cancer screening?
1.
How sure do you feel right now about your decision?
Not sure at all
Somewhat sure
Very sure
2.
Check what you need to do before you make this decision.
3.
Use the following space to list questions, concerns, and next steps.
Your summary
Here's a record of your answers. You can use it to talk with your doctor or loved ones about your decision.
Key concepts that you understood
Key concepts that may need review
Credits
| Author | Bets Davis, MFA |
| Editor | Maria Essig |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology |
References
Citations
- American Cancer Society (2005). Colorectal Cancer Facts and Figures: Special Edition 2005, pp.
1–20. Available online:
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/STT/content/STT_1x_Colorectal_Cancer_Facts_and_Figures_-_Special_Edition_2005.asp.
- Lewis C (2007). Colorectal cancer screening, search
date November 2006. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence. Also available online:
http://www.clinicalevidence.com.
Colon cancer: Which screening test should I have?
You can use it to talk with your doctor or loved ones about your decision.
- Get the facts
- Compare your options
- What matters most to you?
- Where are you leaning now?
- What else do you need to make your decision?
1. Get the Facts
Key points to remember
- Screening tests find health problems early,
before symptoms appear. Regular testing to find colon cancer early is very
important because as soon as there are symptoms, it's usually too late to cure
colon cancer.
- Regular testing greatly lowers your risk of dying
from colon cancer.
- The two main types of tests are:
- Those that mostly find signs of colon cancer (stool
tests).
- Those that can also prevent colon cancer by finding
polypsbefore they turn into
cancer (sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy). And if you have a sigmoidoscopy or
colonoscopy, any polyps that are found can be removed during the test.
- Routine testing is recommended for everyone age 50 and older
who has a normal risk for colon cancer. People with a higher risk, such as
African Americans and people with a strong family history of colon cancer,
should be tested sooner.
FAQs
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer
happens when cells that are not normal grow in your
colon or rectum. Most people just call it "colon cancer."
These
cancers usually begin as
polyps, which are growths attached to the inside of
the colon or rectum. Colon polyps are common, and most of them do not turn into
cancer. Polyps are found during some screening tests. And polyps found during a
colonoscopy or
sigmoidoscopy can be removed at the same time.
Why is regular screening important?
When colon
cancer is found early through screening tests, it is easily treated and often
cured.
But because so few people are screened, colon cancer is
usually not found early, and it is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in
the United States.1
According to the
American Cancer Society, if everyone were tested, tens of thousands of lives
could be saved each year.
Why is your family history important?
A family
history of colon cancer makes you more likely to get it. You will need to be
screened at an earlier age—and have more frequent screening—than other people
if:
- You have a close relative with colon cancer. You are more likely to get colon cancer if:
- One of your parents, brothers, sisters, or children had it
before the age of 60.
- Two or more of your parents, brothers,
sisters, or children has had it at any age.
- You have a family history of certain colon problems, such as
familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or
hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC). Most
people who inherit these conditions will get colon cancer if they are not
screened and treated.
What are stool tests?
Stool tests involve sending
some of your stool to a lab for testing to see if there is evidence of cancer.
They don't help prevent colon cancer, but they do help find it early, when it
is more treatable.
Stool tests need to be done once a year to find
colon cancer as early as possible. These tests can usually be done in the
privacy of your home.
There are three types of stool
tests:
- Fecal occult blood test (FOBT). This is the most common
stool test. You put tiny samples of your stool on a special card or cloth and
send it to a lab. The lab uses certain chemicals to find blood that you can't
see with the naked eye. FOBT tests don't cost much.
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT). This is
a newer test that is a little easier to do at home. It is also costs
more.
- Stool DNA test (sDNA).This is the
newest stool test. It looks for changes in DNA (genetic material) in the stool.
It costs the most.
People ages 50 to 80 who have an FOBT every year are less
likely to die of colon cancer than people who do not have regular screening
tests.2
If you can't or won't go to the
doctor to get an at-home stool test, you can check your local drugstore for an
over-the-counter brand. But you may feel better if you talk to your doctor
about what the test results mean.
Risks of stool tests
There is no risk involved in the actual use of a
stool test. But there are some things you need to think about:
- Blood in the stool can be a sign of colon cancer, but it's more
often caused by something else, such as hemorrhoids, ulcers, or taking aspirin.
These other conditions can cause a "positive" result even when you don't have
cancer.
- If your test is positive, you will probably need to have a
colonoscopy.
- Unlike other tests, stool tests don't help prevent cancer by
finding colon polyps before they turn into cancer. Stool tests mostly find
cancer that is already present.
What is flexible sigmoidoscopy?
Flexible sigmoidoscopy (say "sig-moy-DAW-skuh-pee") is
a test that lets your doctor look at the inside of the lower part of your
colon. The doctor looks through a lighted tube that
can bend around the corners of the colon.
With this test, the
doctor can find
polyps in the lower part of your colon and remove
them. Polyps are growths inside the colon that can turn into colon cancer.
When used to screen for colon cancer, this test is usually done
every 5 years.
Getting ready for a sigmoidoscopy involves
cleaning out the colon:
- For 1 to 2 days before the test, you may be on a
clear liquid diet.
- You will likely have
an
enema before the test.
This test usually takes 5 to 15 minutes, or slightly longer if polyps are
found and removed.
Risks of sigmoidoscopy
There is very little risk of problems from
having a sigmoidoscopy.
- There is a slight chance of piercing the
colon (perforation) or causing severe bleeding by damaging the wall of the
colon. But this is rare.
- There is also a slight chance of a colon
infection (very rare).
A sigmoidoscopy only looks at the lower part of your
colon, which is where most polyps grow. But sometimes polyps grow in the upper
part of your colon, and they would not be seen with this test.
If
your doctor finds polyps during a sigmoidoscopy, you may need to have a
colonoscopy to see if there are more polyps farther up in your colon.
What is colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy
(say "koh-luh-NAW-skuh-pee") is a test that lets your doctor look at the inside
of your entire
colon. The doctor looks through a lighted tube that
can bend around the corners of the colon.
With this test, the
doctor can find and remove
polyps, which are growths inside the colon that can
turn into colon cancer.
When used as a screening test for colon
cancer, this test is usually done every 10 years. It may be done more often if
your risk is higher than average.
Getting ready for a colonoscopy
involves a very thorough cleansing of the colon, which must be completely
empty:
- For 1 to 2 days before the test, you will be
on a
clear liquid diet.
- On the night before
the test, your doctor may have you take a prescription laxative tablet or drink
a laxative solution. This will make you use the bathroom often.
You may given
medicine to help you relax. Many people don't even
remember the test afterward because they are so relaxed.
The test
usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, but it may take longer if polyps are found and
removed.
Risks of colonoscopy
The scope or a small tool may tear the lining of the colon or cause
bleeding. Although these problems are rare, they happen more often with
colonoscopy than with sigmoidoscopy.
Virtual colonoscopy
A
virtual colonoscopy blows air into your colon instead
of inserting a long tube. The air expands your colon so that it is easier to
see on an X-ray. This test is not yet widely available.
Getting
ready for a virtual colonoscopy involves the same thorough cleansing of the
colon that is needed for a regular colonoscopy:
- For 1 to 2 days before the test, you will be
on a
clear liquid diet.
- On the night before
the test, your doctor may have you take a prescription laxative tablet or drink
a laxative solution. This will make you use the bathroom often.
Virtual colonoscopy is still being studied to see if it
works as well as a regular colonoscopy. If polyps are found, you will need a
regular colonoscopy to have them removed.
What do experts recommend?
People 50 and older at average risk should have one of the following tests:| Test | How often? |
|---|
Stool
test | Every
year* |
|
Sigmoidoscopy# | Every 5
years |
|
Colonoscopy | Every 10
years |
| |
Virtual
colonoscopy | Possibly every 5
years |
*Experts have not
yet set guidelines for how often a person should have the stool DNA
test. #One group recommends combining a
stool test every 3 years with a sigmoidoscopy every 5 years. |
Recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force:
- People ages 50 to 75 should have a fecal occult blood test
(FOBT), sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy.
- Some people older than 75
may benefit from screening tests. Others may not. Talk to your doctor about
continuing testing for colon cancer after age 75.
Recommendations from other groups:
- The American Cancer Society (ACS), the American
Gastroenterological Association (AGA), and the American College of
Gastroenterologists (ACG) recommend routine testing for people age 50 and older
who have a normal risk for colon cancer. People with a higher risk, such as
African Americans and people with a strong family history of colon cancer,
should be tested sooner. Talk to your doctor about when you should be tested.
2. Compare your options
| | Stool test | Flexible sigmoidoscopy |
|---|
| What is usually involved? | - It's done at home.
- You take samples of your stools and mail them to a lab.
| - It's done in a doctor's
office, clinic, or hospital.
- It takes 5 to 15 minutes, or slightly longer if polyps are
removed.
|
| What are the benefits? | - It's easy to do at home.
- It's cheaper than other tests.
- You don't need to use laxatives or enemas.
- People ages 50 to 80 who have a stool test every year are less
likely to die of colon cancer than people who do not have regular stool
tests.2
| - You don't have to do it
as often as a stool test.
- It finds polyps before they turn into
cancer.
- Polyps can often be removed during the test.
- It has fewer risks than colonoscopy.
|
| What are the risks and side effects? | - A "positive" result
means other tests will be needed.
| - This test
only sees the lower part of colon.
- Rare problems include infection and piercing the colon
(perforation).
|
| | Colonoscopy |
|---|
| What is usually involved? | - It's done in a doctor's office,
clinic, or hospital.
- You use laxatives to clean out your bowels.
- It takes 30 to 45 minutes, or slightly longer if polyps are
removed.
- You are given drugs to relax. You may not remember the test at
all.
|
| What are the benefits? | - You don't have to do it as often as
other tests.
- It finds polyps before they turn into cancer.
- Polyps
can be removed during the test.
- This test looks at your entire colon.
|
| What are the risks and side effects? | - It costs more than
other tests.
- Bleeding problems and piercing the colon are rare but are more
common than with sigmoidoscopy.
|
Personal stories
Are you interested in what others decided to do? Many people have faced this decision. These personal stories may help you decide.
Personal stories about test methods for colon cancer
These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers. They may be helpful as you make important health decisions.
"My grandmother died of colon cancer, so I think I am going to have a colonoscopy. I know that colonoscopy may have slightly greater risks of complications than a sigmoidoscopy. However, I would rather have a colonoscopy to make sure I don't have cancer."
"I've had a fecal occult blood test every year, and now I'm going to have a sigmoidoscopy. I am a little worried and embarrassed about having a sigmoidoscopy, but I would rather be a little embarrassed than have colon cancer."
"If I have to have an uncomfortable, embarrassing test, I would rather have one every 10 years than have one every 5 years. Besides, a colonoscopy examines the entire colon, not just part of it."
"A sigmoidoscopy is a good way for my doctor to look for signs of cancer. I know it can't be used to look at the whole colon, but I feel comfortable that it will detect any problems."
"No one in my family has ever had colorectal cancer. I try to eat a balanced diet and get plenty of exercise. I am going to do yearly fecal occult blood tests. I am more comfortable doing that than having other more costly procedures."
"My mother has had colon cancer and my sister was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. I plan to have a colonoscopy and ask my doctor how frequently I should repeat the test. I am worried about my family history and want to do everything I can to avoid colorectal cancer."
3. What matters most to you?
Your personal feelings are just as important as the medical facts. Think about what matters most to you in this decision, and show how you feel about the following statements.
I'm afraid of a test that involves putting anything into my colon.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I want to have a test that is going to see as much as possible.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
It’s important to me to do testing at home, in private.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I don’t like the idea of having to clean out my bowels before the test.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I don’t want to miss any work for this test.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I don’t want to have two tests. I want my doctor to remove any polyps right away.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
I’m worried about the cost of the tests.
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
My other important reasons:
Not important
Somewhat important
Very important
4. Where are you leaning now?
Now that you've thought about the facts and your feelings, you may have a general idea of where you stand on this decision. Show which way you are leaning right now.
Using stool test
NOT using stool test
Leaning toward
Undecided
Leaning toward
Using sigmoidoscopy
NOT using sigmoidoscopy
Leaning toward
Undecided
Leaning toward
Using colonoscopy
NOT using colonoscopy
Leaning toward
Undecided
Leaning toward
5. What else do you need to make your decision?
Check the facts
1.
Will having regular screening tests greatly lower your chances of dying from colon cancer?
That’s right. When colon cancer is found early through screening tests, it is easily treated and often cured.
2.
Should all adults have regular colon cancer screening?
You’re right. Most people don’t need to start regular screening until age 50. You may need to start sooner if you have certain health problems or a family history of colon cancer.
Decide what's next
1.
Do you understand the options available to you?
2.
Are you clear about which benefits and side effects matter most to you?
3.
Do you have enough support and advice from others to make a choice?
Certainty
1.
How sure do you feel right now about your decision?
Not sure at all
Somewhat sure
Very sure
2.
Check what you need to do before you make this decision.
3.
Use the following space to list questions, concerns, and next steps.
Credits
| Author | Bets Davis, MFA |
| Editor | Maria Essig |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology |
References
Citations
- American Cancer Society (2005). Colorectal Cancer Facts and Figures: Special Edition 2005, pp.
1–20. Available online:
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/STT/content/STT_1x_Colorectal_Cancer_Facts_and_Figures_-_Special_Edition_2005.asp.
- Lewis C (2007). Colorectal cancer screening, search
date November 2006. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence. Also available online:
http://www.clinicalevidence.com.
Note: The "printer friendly" document will not contain all the information available in the online document some Information (e.g. cross-references to other topics, definitions or medical illustrations) is only available in the online version.Last Updated:April 28, 2009
American Cancer Society (2005). Colorectal Cancer Facts and Figures: Special Edition 2005, pp.
1–20. Available online:
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/STT/content/STT_1x_Colorectal_Cancer_Facts_and_Figures_-_Special_Edition_2005.asp.
Lewis C (2007). Colorectal cancer screening, search
date November 2006. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence. Also available online:
http://www.clinicalevidence.com.