Colorectal Cancer Screening: Questions for the Doctor

If you’re age 45 to 75 years, get screened (tested) regularly for colorectal cancer. If you’re age 76 to 85 years, ask your doctor if you need to continue to get screened.

You may need to start getting screened before age 45 years if colorectal cancer runs in your family.

Colorectal cancer is a cancer that develops in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. 

There are several kinds of screening tests for colorectal cancer. You can even do some at home. Before your next doctor visit, learn about the different types of tests that check for colorectal cancer. Then use that information to talk with your doctor about which test is right for you.

What about cost?

Under the Affordable Care Act, health insurance plans must cover colorectal cancer screening for adults ages 45 to 75 years. Depending on your plan, you may be able to get screened at no cost to you. Check with your insurance company to find out more.

What do I ask the doctor?

When you visit the doctor, it helps to have questions ready ahead of time. You can also ask a family member or friend to go with you to take notes.

Consider taking this list of questions to your next appointment.

• Am I at risk for colorectal cancer?
• When do you recommend that I start getting tested?
• How often do I need to get tested?
• What are the different types of screening tests for colorectal cancer?
• Which screening test do you recommend for me? Why?
• What happens during the test? How do I prepare?
• Does the test have any risks or side effects?
• How long will it take to get the results?
• What can I do to reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?