When it comes to screenings for cancer of the colon and rectum, a lot of us procrastinate. But this screening is fast and not painful. Even testing such as colonoscopy may take only 15 to 20 minutes. And that’s time well spent, because screening can detect cancer in its early stages. Tests also can locate abnormal growths—called polyps—years before cancer develops.

How effective is screening? Doctors say three out of five deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented with regular screening.

Who Needs to Be Screened
If you’re age 50 or older, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends regular checks for colorectal cancer. However, you may need to get tested at an earlier age if you have:

• A previous history of polyps or colorectal cancer
• A family history of polyps or colorectal cancer
• Inflammatory bowel disease

Multiple Choices
You have several options when it comes to screening.

• A test for hidden blood in the stool, called a fecal occult blood test, every year
• A barium enema, or lower gastrointestinal series, which is an X-ray of the lower digestive tract, every five years
• A sigmoidoscopy, a procedure that checks the lower colon and rectum using a tiny camera, every five years
• A colonoscopy, another procedure that checks the entire colon and rectum with a camera, every 10 years

You may need more frequent testing depending on your health history.

If you’re due for a screening, ask your doctor which test—or combination of tests—is right for you.

Get Screened and You Could Win a $15 Gift Card!
When you see your doctor for a screening for colorectal, cervical, or breast cancer; a preventive visit; or a cholesterol test, you’ll be entered into a monthly drawing for a $15 gift card. It’s all thanks to Paramount Perks. So call today for an appointment and make your body and wallet healthier.