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Looking for signs of colon and rectal cancer in otherwise healthy people

	Colon and rectal cancer screening can help detect cancer in people before the cancer causes any symptoms. Turn to ConsumerReportsHealth.org for more information on how regular screenings can help detect cancer early, and save lives.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org to learn more about the four most common types of colon and rectal cancer screening tests used.

Regular colon and rectal cancer screening is now recommended for most men and women over the age of 50. People at high risk of getting these types of cancer can get tested earlier and more often. Consumer Reports Health is here to help with the best research about colon and rectal cancer screening methods and expert evidence and advice about how and when to get tested.

Key points about colon and rectal cancer screening

• Colon and rectal cancer screening saves lives by detecting the cancer in its earliest, symptom-free stages, when it is most responsive to treatment.
• Screening can also help prevent these types of cancer, by finding small growths called polyps that might turn into cancer if they are not removed.
• The four most commonly used screening tests include: fecal occult blood test (FOBT), flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and barium enema.
• Colonoscopy is the most thorough test for colon and rectal cancer. This is why it is also used as a follow-up test if you get a positive result on any of the other screening tests.

Risks associated with the screening tests are minimal, but may include damage to the colon and rectum, and some false positive and false negative results. Despite this, doctors recommend screening for colon and rectal cancer because there is good evidence that it offers two very important benefits: 1) It reduces the number of people who die from cancer, and 2) It reduces the number of cases of colon and rectal cancer. It probably does this by detecting polyps that would have turned cancerous if they had not been removed.

We encourage you to read our entire condition report and to consult with your doctor to learn more about colon and rectal cancer screening. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, you’ll have access to our expert research and recommendations, and you’ll be more confident and knowledgeable about the type and frequency of testing that’s best for you.