When to start screening
- Average risk: age 45, continuing through 75. After 75, the decision is individual.
- Higher risk: earlier, often at 40 or 10 years before the youngest affected relative's diagnosis, if a parent, sibling or child had colon cancer or advanced polyps.
- Inflammatory bowel disease or certain genetic syndromes: a specialized schedule.
Screening options
| Test | How often (if normal) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Colonoscopy | Every 10 years | Finds and removes polyps in one visit |
| FIT stool test | Every year | A positive result needs a colonoscopy |
| Multitarget stool DNA test | Every 1 to 3 years | A positive result needs a colonoscopy |
| CT colonography | Every 5 years | A positive result needs a colonoscopy |
The best test is the one you'll actually complete. Symptoms such as bleeding or anemia call for a diagnostic colonoscopy, not a stool test.
About polyps
Most polyps are small and benign. Adenomas and sessile serrated polyps can become cancer over time, which is why they're removed. The number, size and type found set your next colonoscopy date, typically 3 to 10 years later.
Warning signs to report
Rectal bleeding, black stools, iron-deficiency anemia, a lasting change in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss, at any age.
Turning 45 or due for screening? Call (813) 400-0543 or send a message.
Written and reviewed by Brian Frank, MD
Board-certified gastroenterologist (ABIM). Last reviewed October 8, 2026.
Board-certified gastroenterologist (ABIM). Last reviewed October 8, 2026.
This page is general information, not medical advice. For a medical emergency, call 911.