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Text Alternative for 2018 Colorectal Cancer Screening Guideline for Men and Women at Average Risk

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This guideline applies to men and women at average risk for colorectal cancer:

  • Ages 45 to 75: Get screened. Several types of tests can be used. Talk to your doctor about which option is best for you.
  • Ages 76-85: Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue screening. When deciding, take into account your own preferences, overall health, and past screening history.
  • Age 85 +: People should no longer get colorectal cancer screening.

Testing Options:

  • Stool-based tests look for signs of cancer in a person’s stool. 
  • Visual exams such as colonoscopy or CT colonography, look at the inside of the colon and rectum for polyps or cancer.

No matter which test you choose, the most important thing is to get tested. Visit cancer.org/colonguidelines to learn more.

All positive results on non-colonoscopy screening tests should be followed up with a timely colonoscopy to complete the screening process. Talk to your doctor about screening, and contact your insurance provider about insurance coverage for screening.

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