You know what you can do for those you love? Get screened!
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, thanks to effective screening tools that detect cancer early—or even before it starts. But with several screening options available, how do you know which one is right for you? Here’s a breakdown of the most common colorectal cancer screening methods, their pros and cons, and how they compare. This isn’t medical advice— just general information for your reading pleasure.
How it works: A doctor uses a long flexible camera to examine the entire colon and rectum. Polyps can be removed during the procedure.
Frequency: Every 10 years (if normal), every 3-5 years if abnormal (to be determined after you get your report back)
Pros:
Detects and removes precancerous polyps in one step (diagnostic and therapeutic)
Gold standard for accuracy
Cons:
Requires the dreaded bowel prep
Sedation (general anesthesia) needed. Some will do it while you’re awake and mildly drowsy but the chances of you moving during a colonoscopy far outweighs the benefits. Besides, what’s a little propofol nap gonna hurt?
Risk of bleeding or perforation- though the risk is small, it exists, because this is a medical procedure.
How it works: Detects hidden blood in stool, which can be a sign of cancer or large polyps.
Frequency: Annually
Pros:
Non-invasive, done at home
No dietary restrictions or bowel prep
Cons:
Can’t detect polyps directly
Positive results require a follow-up colonoscopy
You’re smearing poop onto a card.
How it works: Combines FIT with DNA markers that may signal cancer or advanced polyps.
Frequency: Every 3 years
Pros:
Non-invasive, at-home test
More sensitive than FIT for cancer
Cons:
Higher false-positive rate
Positive result requires colonoscopy
Not recommended for high-risk individuals
You’re smearing poop onto a card.
How it works: Examines the lower third of the colon with a shorter, flexible scope.
Frequency: Every 5 years (or every 10 years with FIT)
Pros:
Less invasive than full colonoscopy
No sedation required
Can be beneficial in young people, who tend to have left-sided tumors
Cons:
Doesn’t examine the entire colon
Misses right-sided polyps
How it works: Uses a CT scan to re-create images of the colon, sometimes in 3D.
Frequency: Every 5 years
Pros:
Non-invasive
No sedation
Cons:
Requires bowel prep
Cannot remove polyps—follow-up colonoscopy needed for anything suspicious
May detect unrelated findings (“incidentalomas” that we would not have known about otherwise)
Your choice depends on your age, risk factors, personal preferences, and access to care. This should be a thoughtful discussion had with your healthcare provider.
Average-risk adults should begin screening at age 45.
Those with family history or genetic syndromes may need earlier and more frequent screening.
No matter which test you choose, the best colorectal cancer screening method is the one you actually do. Talk to your doctor to find the right fit—and don’t wait. Early detection can save your life.
Screen smart. Live longer. Get screened.
