People who have a higher chance of getting
colorectal cancer should begin screening earlier in
life and have more frequent screening than others. People with a higher risk
include those who:
- Already have been diagnosed with colorectal
cancer.
- Have had
adenomatous polyps) removed from your colon. This type
of polyp is more likely to turn into cancer, but the risk is still very
low.
- Have a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, or
child) with an adenomatous polyp or colorectal cancer.
- Have
inflammatory bowel disease, such as
ulcerative colitis or
Crohn's disease.
- Have a rare
inherited polyp syndrome.
- Have had
radiation treatments to the abdomen or pelvis.
If you have an increased risk for colon polyps, the frequency of your
screening depends on your overall health, age, and combination of other risk
factors. Talk with your doctor about the types and frequency of tests that will
be best for you and your level of risk.
