Colon cancer screening

We want you to stay well. Colon and rectal cancers are the second leading cause of U.S. cancer deaths and risk increases as you age. Because most colon cancer is very slow growing, the highest number of deaths occur between the ages of 75 and 84, but the cancer most often started at least 10 years earlier, likely as a polyp.

This is why your primary care doctor is likely to recommend regular colon screenings after age 45. There are a number of ways you can protect yourself from colon cancer. They start with a diet full of colorful foods and fiber, and they continue with Spectrum Health services for colon care.