Partner with your healthcare team

Talk with your healthcare team about your colon cancer risk and the screening plan that's right for you. This is especially important if you are age 45 or older, have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, or have symptoms such as ongoing changes in bowel habits or bleeding that you can't explain.

Your healthcare team can help you understand your screening options, decide when to start screening and how often to repeat it, and discuss whether you may need earlier or more frequent testing based on your personal or family history.

They also can help you find ways to improve your health through healthy choices that fit your lifestyle. They also can suggest healthy eating and exercise choices that suit your daily life.