Colorectal Cancer Screening
One in three adults is overdue for colorectal cancer screening
What is colorectal cancer screening?
Colorectal cancer screening is a way to look for early signs of colorectal cancer before symptoms develop. Common screening methods include colonoscopies and stool-based tests. These tests help doctors:
- Find and remove polyps before they turn into cancer
- Detect cancer early, when it's easier to treat and often curable
Screening saves lives by catching colorectal cancer early, and in many cases, preventing it altogether.
Who needs colorectal cancer screening?
Did you know that more young people are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer than ever before?
Colorectal cancer is common — it’s the third most diagnosed cancer and second most common cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. It is also now the leading cause of cancer dealths in adults under 50, underscoring the importance of early detection. Since the mid-1990s, colorectal cancer rates in adults under the age of 55 have been rising about 1% to 2% year.
UCLA Health strongly recommends that adults at average risk of developing colorectal cancer begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. This starting age is also supported by several major medical organizations, including the United States Preventative Service Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Cancer Society (ACS).
For individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or genetic factors that increase risk, screening should begin at age 40 or earlier. Talk to your doctor about the right age and screening option for you.
Explore when to start screening
What are the types of colorectal cancer screening?
Several screening tests can help detect and prevent colorectal cancer by identifying polyps before they become cancerous. At UCLA Health, we recommend two tests with the strongest scientific evidence:
- Colonoscopy
- A colonoscopy allows a doctor to examine the inside of your colon using a thin, flexible tube with a camera. This test can both detect and remove polyps during the same procedure. If your first colonoscopy is normal, people at average risk typically repeat the exam every 10 years. Preparing for a colonoscopy is important, and not all bowel prep options work the same for everyone. Learn how to choose the best prep for you and how to prepare.
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) kit stool tests
- A FIT test checks for hidden blood in your stool - a possible early sign of colorectal cancer. This test is done at home by collecting a small stool sample and sending it to the lab. For adults at average risk, FIT is recommended every year, starting at age 45. See detailed instructions on how to prepare and complete the test.
Which test is right for you? Your ideal screening approach depends on your personal risk factors, health history, and preferences. Talk to your doctor to determine the best screening option for you.
Schedule your screening
If you meet the criteria for a colorectal cancer screening, follow these steps:
- Talk to your primary care provider (PCP) about a colonoscopy or FIT kit. If you don’t have a PCP, request an appointment with one.
- Wait for your PCP to submit an order for a test.
- After your PCP places an order in the system, schedule your colonoscopy by calling 310-825-7540.
Request a Screening
Request an appointment with your primary care provider and ask them to submit an order for a colorectal cancer screening.
Helpful Links
Our stories
Meet some of our amazing patients who advocate for change by sharing their stories of overcoming their fear of colorectal cancer screening and breaking the stigmas associated with testing.
Lifelong Dodgers fan turns unforgettable double play
The 53-year-old U.S. Navy veteran, a lifelong Dodgers fan who began attending games with her father when she was a child, was delighted to share her story and promote the importance of screening at a preseason Dodgers-Angels game where she toured the stadium with her family and threw out the ceremonial first pitch. Angie was subsequently also honored at one of the first official games of the 2023 season. “Since African-Americans are particularly at risk for colorectal cancer, getting the message out that screening saves lives is especially important,” said Jones. “I’m living proof of that.”