This one health screening is now advised for all people over age 45

You used to be able to wait until the big 5-0 for colorectal screening, but now experts recommend that everyone do it by age 45. While no one wants to think about colorectal testing, this simple test could save your life. Routine screening can catch cancer early, thus obviating premature death.

Why consider early testing

As colorectal cancer rates increase, it’s becoming more important than ever to get screened early, even if you seem healthy. According to the National Cancer Institute, over 18,000 people under the age of 50 will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year.

The US isn’t the only country suffering from the higher rates of younger people. They are seen around the world with increasing rates starting as long ago as 1995.

Colon cancer often does not show symptoms until your cancer is in such a late phase that there’s no coming back. Early testing can prevent that, helping you catch it in its earliest stages. Different tests are available today
Most of us think of a colonoscopy when thinking about colorectal screening.

While that’s an option, it’s not the only one.

Visual tests and stool tests are common options too. To determine the right test for you, speak with your doctor about your family history and other extenuating risk factors.

If it is the colonoscopy, the good news is you aren’t awake for it, and it’s over before you know it.

The small inconvenience of the test could save your life. The key is to have them as recommended, especially if your family has a history of colon cancer.

Who’s at risk for colon cancer?

People used to blame lifestyle choices for colon cancer. This includes obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, family history, and smoking. It isn’t hard to see why — those with this lifestyle had high rates of colon cancer between ages 50 – 75.

But, today, experts believe this could be part of the reason for early-onset.

What are the warning signs of colon cancer?

Like most cancers, there isn’t one sign that tells you that you have cancer. But if you notice any of the following, make an appointment with your doctor right away:

• New onset of constipation

• Other changes in bowel habits

• Abdominal pain

• Blood in your stool

The problem is that symptoms of colon cancer are few and far between. Most people don’t realize they have it until they get screened, which is why testing is so important. Even if you feel ‘fine,’ the test would show cancer cells that would have gone unnoticed until it was too late.

Don’t let the silent killer get you. If you’re 45 years or older, it’s time to schedule your colon cancer screening tests. Connect with your doctor to determine which option is best for you, whether it’s a colonoscopy, or stool test.

The key is to stay in touch with your doctor and get early care. Prevention is the key to surviving cancer, and if you can find it early, it very well could save your life.