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Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. If all adults 45 and older were screened for colorectal cancer we could avoid thousands of deaths each year and prevent many people from ever getting the disease.
This infographic focuses on the benefits of getting tested, identifying the people at greatest risk for developing colorectal cancer, and the steps you can take to detect colorectal cancer early or even prevent it altogether.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the US. Cancer screening tests look for cancer in people who don't have any signs or symptoms. When colorectal cancer is found early during screening, it's usually smaller and might be easier to treat.
While overall rates of colorectal cancer have gone down over the past 10 years, rates in people younger than age 50 have gone up by about 2 percent each year.
Anyone can get colorectal cancer, but some people have a higher risk than others.
Certain health conditions increase risk:
Certain communities are at higher risk:
Everyone should start regular screening for colorectal cancer at age 45. If you’re at high risk of colorectal cancer based on family history or other factors, you may need to start screening before age 45, be screened more often,or get specific tests.
About stool-based tests:
Stool-based test options:
About visual-exam tests:
Visual exam test options:
There are some differences between these tests to consider, but the most important thing is to get screened, no matter which test you choose.
More than half of all colorectal cancers are linked to physical inactivity, poor nutrition, excess body weight, tobacco, and alcohol.
© 2023, American Cancer Society, Inc.
No. 012793 Rev. 12/23
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