Stay ahead of colorectal cancer with early screening

Early screening gives you the chance to catch problems before they start. Many colorectal cancers begin as small polyps that can be removed long before they turn into something serious. With the right screening plan and a few healthy habits, you can protect your colon health for the long run. 

What is colorectal cancer? 

Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum, parts of your digestive system that help move food and waste through your body. 

Many cases begin as polyps — small growths inside the colon or rectum. Not all polyps turn into cancer, but some can over time. 

A polyp is more likely to become cancer if: 

• It’s larger than 1 cm 
• More than 3 polyps are found 
• It looks abnormal under a microscope 

Did you know? More than 90% of colorectal cancer cases are curable when detected early. 

Who is at higher risk? 

Your risk increases if you: 

• Are age 45 or older 
• Have a personal or family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer 
• Have type 2 diabetes 

African Americans have higher rates of colorectal cancer than any other racial group in the U.S. 

Why screening matters 

A polyp can take 10–15 years to become cancer. Screening gives your provider time to find and remove polyps early. 

Screening can also catch cancer when it’s small and easier to treat.

Screening options

Colonoscopy 

The gold standard for screening. A thin, flexible tube with a camera checks for polyps and cancer. 
Recommended every 10 years for people at average risk. 

Stool-based tests 

These tests look for blood or DNA changes in your stool. 
Types include: 

• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) 
• Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) 
• Stool DNA test

Depending on the test, screening may be needed every 1–3 years.

CT colonography 

A non-invasive imaging test that creates 3D images of the colon. 
Recommended every 5 years. 

Your provider can help decide which option fits your health needs and history. 

Healthy choices that lower your risk 

Lifestyle plays a large role in colorectal cancer risk. These habits can help protect your health: 

1. Maintain a healthy weight 
   Being overweight or obese raises your risk, especially for men. 
2. Eat more whole foods 
   Foods rich in fiber support digestion and help you stay at a healthy weight. Most adults need about 25–30 grams of fiber a day, which you can reach by adding more fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, and other high-fiber foods to your meals. 
3. Increase physical activity 
   Regular movement lowers your risk of colorectal cancer and polyps. 
   Try to go for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. 
4. Limit alcohol 
   When your body breaks down alcohol, it makes chemicals that can hurt your cells. This can make it harder for your body to fix damage and can raise your cancer risk. 
5. Avoid tobacco 
   Smoking and secondhand smoke exposes your body to cancer-causing chemicals that affect many organs, including the colon. 

Take charge of your health

Colorectal cancer is preventable, and early detection saves lives. 
Talk to your Marathon Health provider about your risk and the right screening plan for you.