How can I lower colorectal cancer risk, and what screening options are available?
Activity, a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and limiting processed meat support risk reduction without guaranteeing prevention. Screening is important, and some tests allow precancerous polyps to be removed. Colonoscopy is not the only option for every average-risk person.
Details
Choose suitable timing and a test
Many US guidelines start average-risk screening at age 45; clinicians adapt this to the guidance used and personal history. Family history, inflammatory bowel disease or inherited syndromes may require earlier assessment.
Screening needs follow-through
Periodic stool tests or colonoscopy may be used according to the plan and availability. A positive result is not a confirmed cancer diagnosis but may require colonoscopy. Do not avoid follow-up by repeating a test until it is negative.
Symptoms do not wait for screening age
Blood in stool, persistent bowel changes or weight loss needs evaluation at any age. Do not self-start aspirin to prevent cancer; potential benefit and bleeding risk require a clinical decision.
Related reading: When can yellow stool suggest poor fat absorption?.