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A lifesaving schedule
At age 50, asymptomatic men and women should begin screening with one of the following examination schedules. People at risk for colorectal cancer may be required to follow a different regimen.
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Test
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Looks for
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Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) every year
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hidden blood in the stool
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| Flexible sigmoidoscopy (FSIG) every five years |
polyps and cancer in the rectum and lower third of the colon |
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FOBT yearly & FSIG every five years*
|
hidden blood, polyps and cancer |
| Double-contrast barium enema every five years |
polyps and cancer in the rectum and entire colon using barium and X-rays |
| Colonoscopy every 10 years |
polyps and cancer in the rectum and entire colon |
| Virtual colonoscopy every five years** |
polyps and cancer in the rectum and entire colon using CT scan |
| Stool DNA test — interval uncertain** |
DNA mutations in stool |
*Combined testing is preferred over either annual FOBT or FSIG every five years alone.
**Not commonly available and may not be covered by insurance
Source: American Cancer Society |
