Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer can develop when cells in the colon or rectum begin to grow as growths (also called polyps) on the inner lining of the intestines. These growths are typically benign, but some polyps can develop into cancer over time. It may take years before polyps eventually develop into cancer.

Your risk for colorectal cancer increases with age, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, a low-fiber diet high in red meat, or if there are hereditary forms of colorectal cancer in your family. Physical activity and a diet rich in whole grains and fiber can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

The purpose of colorectal cancer screening is to reduce mortality by detecting cancer at an early stage, when it is still treatable. Additionally, the goal is to reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer by identifying and removing precursors to the disease (polyps) before they have the chance to develop into cancer.

Screening for colorectal cancer is offered to all individuals aged 50-74 every two years.

The screening involves a test for blood in the stool (fecal test). You will take the stool sample at home and send it to the regional screening unit.

If blood is detected in the stool, you will be offered a follow-up colonoscopy (a procedure where a flexible camera is used to examine the colon and rectum) within 14 days after the stool sample is tested. Blood in the stool does not necessarily mean you have colorectal cancer, but it is a finding that should always be investigated further.