When Should You Get Screened?

Knowing when to get screened for colorectal cancer (CRC) is crucial for early detection and prevention. Knowing when to get screened can make a difference and save your life.

For People with an Average Risk

What To Know

When to Start Screening: If you are between 45 and- 75 years of age, you should be screened for colorectal cancer.

  • Under 45: CRC does not care about age. If you think you are experiencing any symptoms or are concerned about your health, learn more about the CRC symptoms and speak with your healthcare provider.
  • Ages 76 – 85: This is a personal choice, depending on your health and previous screenings. It’s best to talk it over with your doctor.
  • 85+: Usually, screenings are not recommended at this point.

Who is at average risk?

You are in the average risk group if you:

  • Don’t have a personal history of colorectal cancer, certain polyps, inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn’s of ulcerative colitis), or have never had radiation to your abdomen or pelvic area.
  • Don’t have a family history of CRC or polyps.
  • Don’t have a hereditary condition like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome.

Learn more about risk factors and how to reduce them here.

For People with an Increased Risk

Risk factors and when to get screened:

Family History of Colon or Rectal Cancer

If you have a close relative who has had CRC, you might need to start screenings earlier. It’s best to check with your doctor.

Inherited Genetic Syndromes

If you have a condition like FAP or Lynch syndrome, you will likely need to start screenings early. Your doctor will help figure out the best plan for you.

History of Polyps

Had polyps removed before? Depending on the type and number, you might need another colonoscopy in about 3 years, maybe sooner or later.

History of Colon or Rectal Cancer

After cancer surgery, most people start regular colonoscopies about a year later.

Radiation to the Abdomen or Pelvic Area

If you had radiation treatment, you should start screening 10 years later or at age 35, whichever comes last. You might also need screenings more often, like every 3-5 years.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

If you have been diagnosed with something like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, start getting colonoscopies around 8 years after diagnosis, and then every 1-3 years depending on your results.

Rachel, survivor

“I firmly believe that early detection is key. Listening to your body is crucial—you know it better than anyone else, and if something doesn’t seem right, get it checked! I can’t even imagine how my health would be now if I had never gotten that colonoscopy in 2009.”

Although it’s not the most exciting thing to think about, getting screened is really important. If you’re due for a screening or just curious about your risk, it’s a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider.

Ride to end colon cancer this May!

All bike types. All distances. All fitness levels. All across the US (and beyond!). Set your goal and ride!

Whether you ride a road bike, cruiser, stationary bike, or something in between — we welcome everyone to hop on and join the cause. This unique, month-long biking event allows you to ride when, where, and how you choose while raising funds for research.

Let's get pedaling!