Colorectal cancer test recommendations

The Canadian Association of Gastroenterology and the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation recommend routine colorectal testing for people age 50 and older who do not have an increased risk for developing colorectal cancer.

The following guidelines are for people older than 50 who do not have an increased risk for colorectal cancer.¹

Colorectal test guidelines

Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) every 1 to 2 years or Sigmoidoscopy every 5 years or Barium enema every 5 years or A yearly FOBT and a sigmoidoscopy every 5 years or Colonoscopy every 10 years

You will need to begin routine testing earlier than age 50 and have it more frequently if you have an increased risk for colorectal cancer. You have an increased risk if you:

• Already have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
• Have had precancerous (adenomatous) polyps removed from your colon.
• 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 breast cancer, endometrial cancer, or ovarian cancer.
• Have had radiation treatments to the abdomen or pelvis.

What to think about

Virtual colonoscopy uses X-rays and computers to take two- or three-dimensional pictures of the interior lining of your large intestine. It may be used as a test for people who do not have an increased risk for colon cancer. For people who have an increased risk for colon cancer, conventional colonoscopy may be better because it permits tissue biopsies or polyp removal. Virtual colonoscopy is not widely available in most parts of Canada, and the cost may not be covered by provincial health plans or private health insurance.^{2, 3}

Author:	Carrie Henley Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: July 23, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Peter J. Kahrilas, MD - Gastroenterology Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine
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