Colorectal cancer test recommendations
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)1, the American Cancer Society (ACS), and the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) recommend routine colorectal testing for people age 50 and older who do not have an increased risk for developing colorectal cancer. These groups do not recommend one type of testing over another.
The following guidelines are for people older than 50 who do not have an increased risk for colorectal cancer. No test is recommended over another. Talk with your doctor to decide which test or tests are best for you.
Colorectal cancer screening guidelines2, 3 Test Frequency Stool test*, such as the fecal occult blood test (FOBT), fecal immunochemical test (FIT), or the stool DNA test (sDNA)
Every year
or
Every 5 years
or
Every 5 years
or
Every 10 years
or
Computed tomographic colonography (CTC), also called a virtual colonoscopy
Frequency not determined, possibly every 5 years
*Some groups recommend combining a yearly stool test with a sigmoidoscopy every 5 years.
Experts have not yet set guidelines for how often a person should have the stool DNA test or a computed tomographic colonography (virtual colonoscopy).3
You will need to begin routine testing earlier than age 50 and have it more frequently if you have an increased risk for colorectal cancer. You have an increased risk if you:
- Already have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
- Have had adenomatous polyps removed from your colon. This type of polyp is more likely to turn into cancer, but the risk is still very low.
- Have a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, or child) with an adenomatous polyp or colorectal cancer.
- Have inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
- Have a rare inherited polyp syndrome.
- Have had radiation treatments to the abdomen or pelvis.
What to think about
Virtual colonoscopy uses X-rays and computers to take two- or three-dimensional pictures of the interior lining of your large intestine. It may be used as a test for people who do not have an increased risk for colon cancer or for people who cannot have a colonoscopy. For people who have an increased risk for colon cancer, conventional colonoscopy may be better because it permits tissue biopsies or polyp removal. Virtual colonoscopy is not widely available, and the cost may not be covered by insurance.
For more information, see the Colorectal Cancer or Colon Polyps topics.
| Author: | Monica Rhodes | Last Updated: May 14, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Peter J. Kahrilas, MD - Gastroenterology | |
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