# What are the recommended tests for the early detection of colorectal cancer? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/colorectal-cancer-early-detection-recommended-tests Language: en Category: oncology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.268Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.268Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/colorectal-cancer-early-detection-recommended-tests Early detection of colorectal cancer is vital because symptoms may not appear in the early stages of the disease. Screening aims to identify signs of the disease before symptoms develop, which increases the chances of effective treatment. Most experts recommend starting screening at age 45 and continuing until at least age 75, while individuals over 75 or those at high risk should discuss the frequency and type of screening with their healthcare provider [\[1\]](). ## Types of Early Detection Tests Early detection tests for colorectal cancer include several types, and a doctor can determine the most appropriate one based on an individual's risk factors and medical history: - **Stool Tests:** These tests look for occult (hidden) blood in the stool, which may be a sign of polyps or tumors in the colon or rectum. The main types include: 1. **Guaiac-based Fecal Occult Blood Test (gFOBT):** Involves placing small stool samples on a special card and testing them with a chemical that changes color if blood is present [\[2\]](). 2. **Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT):** Uses antibodies to detect blood in the stool [\[2\]](). 3. **Stool DNA Test:** Looks for genetic changes in stool cells that may indicate colorectal cancer [\[2\]](). - **Colonoscopy:** A procedure that allows a doctor to examine the entire interior of the rectum and colon using a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and a lens. It can detect polyps, abnormal areas, or cancer, and remove polyps or take tissue samples for examination under a microscope [\[1\]]() [\[2\]](). - **Flexible Sigmoidoscopy:** Similar to a colonoscopy but only examines the lower part of the colon and rectum [\[1\]]() [\[2\]](). - **Virtual Colonoscopy (CT Colonography):** This procedure uses CT scans to create detailed images of the colon, helping to detect polyps or anything unusual on the inner surface of the colon [\[2\]](). ## When to Start Screening? It is recommended that people at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 [\[1\]](). However, individuals with certain risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer or certain genetic syndromes, may need to start screening at a younger age or undergo more frequent screenings [\[1\]]() [\[2\]](). It is important to discuss your personal and family medical history with your doctor to determine the most appropriate screening schedule. ## Importance of Early Detection and Next Steps Early detection of colorectal cancer is crucial because it can help discover cancer in its early stages, when treatment is easier and more effective [\[1\]](). If screening results are abnormal, the doctor may recommend further tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as a biopsy (taking a tissue sample for examination) [\[1\]]() [\[2\]](). If any symptoms occur, such as changes in bowel habits that persist for more than a few days, blood in the stool, recurring abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss, a doctor should be consulted immediately [\[1\]]() [\[3\]](). These symptoms may be caused by colorectal cancer or other conditions, and require a thorough medical evaluation. For additional information on this topic, you can visit [Colorectal Cancer: Early Detection, Treatment, and Prevention (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Colorectal Cancer]() - [Colon Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version]() - [Rectal Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/colorectal-cancer-early-detection-recommended-tests#answer