Colorectal Cancer Screening Made Simple July 15, 2026 Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. Knowing when to get tested, even if you are young and feel healthy, can be a life saver. “We have seen a dramatic rise in colon cancer in people under the age of 50, so we now recommend screening start at age 45,” said Gregory Schwartz, MD, at Samaritan Gastroenterology – Corvallis. “If you have a family history or other risk factors, you may need to start earlier. Talk with your doctor about what is right for you.” Why Get Tested? Screening can help find cancer early. When detected in its earliest stages, treatment is easier and survival rates can reach upwards of 91%, compared to much lower success when the cancer is found later. Testing Options “Several screening options exist depending on patient preference, including at-home testing,” said Dr. Schwartz.“When choosing, it ultimately comes down to what makes the most sense to meet each patient’s needs.” Colonoscopy: Every 10 years (if results are normal). This is the most accurate test and the only one where polyps can be removed during the exam. FIT-DNA (also known as Cologuard): Every three years (if results are normal). You collect a stool sample at home and send it to a lab to check for DNA changes and hidden blood in the stool linked to cancer. FIT (fecal immunochemical test): Every year (if results are normal). You collect a stool sample at home and send it to a lab to check for hidden blood. “If any stool test is positive, a colonoscopy is ideally performed within one to three months and no later than sixmonths,” said Dr. Schwartz. Which Test Is Best? “Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard because it finds cancer early and can even prevent it by removing pre cancerous polyps,” said Dr. Schwartz. “If you are unsure if a colonoscopy is right for you, at least consider one of the at-home options. The most important thing is to get screened.” Visit samhealth.org/ColonHealth or talk with your doctor about your screening options.
