Getting screened or tested for colorectal cancer is one of the most powerful things a person can do to prevent cancer. Most colorectal cancers start as polyps, which are growths in the lining of the colon or rectum. In many cases, a colorectal screening will detect these growths and a physician can remove them BEFORE they can do harm.

According to the American Cancer Society, beginning at age 50, both men and women at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should use one of the screening tests below:

• flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years*
• colonoscopy every 10 years
• double contrast barium enema every 5 years*
• CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years*

*If test is positive, a colonoscopy should be performed.

For more information, please visit the American Cancer Society’s website.

If you’re over 50 or if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, talk to your primary care provider or call Sanford Clinic Gastroenterology at (605)328-8500 to schedule an appointment for a colonoscopy.