Dr. Ashley Riskin BSc, MD, CCFPLongevity

Early Detection Saves Lives – Colon cancer is highly treatable when detected early, yet many cases are diagnosed at later stages due to lack of screening. Further, we have noticed an increase in colon cancer in younger populations. Unlike some other cancers, colorectal cancer can often be prevented through regular screening since precancerous polyps can be detected and removed, and has a high survival rate. Early screening can catch it before symptoms even appear! Awareness campaigns encourage people to get screened on time.

Who Should Get Screened?

  • Average Risk Individuals: Official BC Guidelines suggest starting at age 50. We will often start screening after age 40 at Connect Health.
  • High-Risk Individuals (family history, personal history of polyps, inflammatory bowel disease): May need earlier or more frequent screening—consult your doctor.
  • If Experiencing Symptoms such as:
    • Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools)
    • Blood in stool (bright red or dark)
    • Unexplained weight loss
    • Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
    • Fatigue or weakness
    • Feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely

Screening Options & Accuracy

  1. Colonoscopy (Every 10 years)
    • A flexible tube with a camera examines the entire colon, allowing for polyp removal.
    • Accuracy: Detects 95% of colorectal cancers and precancerous polyps.
  2. Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) (Every year)
    • A stool test that detects hidden blood, which can be a sign of cancer.
    • Accuracy: Detects about 79% of colorectal cancers.
  3. CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy) (Every 5 years)
    • A CT scan creates detailed images of the colon. If abnormalities are found, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed.
    • Accuracy: Detects about 86% of colorectal cancers.
  4. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy (Every 5 years)
    • Examines the lower part of the colon with a flexible tube. If polyps are found, a full colonoscopy may be needed.
    • Accuracy: Detects about 70% of colorectal cancers, mainly in rectum & lower colon.
  5. Stool DNA Test (Every 3 years) – not available in Canada within healthcare system.
    • Detects abnormal DNA and hidden blood in stool samples.
    • Accuracy: Detects 92% of colorectal cancers, but has a higher false-positive rate.

Talk to your doctor about what option might be right for you. Also talk to your loved ones and make sure they are getting screened!

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