Screening Recommendations
Current recommendations for
colorectal cancer screening vary
depending on a person’s level of
risk.
People at average risk
should begin screening at age 50
(or at age 45 if African
American). Average risk
means having no symptoms (eg,
blood in stool), no personal or
family history of polyps or
colorectal cancer, and no other
risk factors for colorectal
cancer (eg, IBD, inherited
polyposis syndrome).
People at increased risk
should begin screening earlier
and/or be screened more often.
Repeated screening is referred
to as surveillance.
Factors that increase a person’s
risk for developing colorectal
cancer include a personal
history of polyps, colorectal
cancer, or IBD and a family
history of polyps, colorectal
cancer, or inherited polyposis
syndromes.
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Colorectal cancer is cancer that starts in the large intestine (colon)
or rectum. Most colorectal cancers begin as an abnormal, noncancerous
growth called a polyp. Chronic inflammation from inflammatory
bowel disease (IBD) also can cause cells in the lining of the colon
or rectum to transform from normal into a precancerous condition called dysplasia
and then into cancer.
Screening—testing to find a problem before symptoms occur—can detect
polyps and dysplasia. Finding and removing polyps can prevent colorectal
cancer. Screening also can detect colorectal cancer at an early stage,
when the disease is easier to cure.
At Lankenau Medical Center, a multidisciplinary team of specialists is
dedicated to prevention, early detection, and effective treatment of
colorectal cancer. Our team
is experienced with the most advanced diagnostic and therapeutic
approaches, including minimally invasive surgical treatments pioneered
right here at Lankenau.
To schedule an appointment with a Lankenau gastroenterologist
or surgeon call
866.CALL.MLH or use the online
appointment request form.
Prevention and Early Detection
Our comprehensive services for prevention and early detection of
colorectal cancer include:
If a cancerous growth is detected during colonoscopy, a thorough
evaluation will be done to determine appropriate treatment options.
Treatment will be individualized to the patient based on many factors,
including the size, depth, and character of the tumor and whether the
cancer has spread to local lymph nodes or other organs.
Learn more about colorectal
cancer >
Related services:
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