An estimated 135,400 new cases and 56,700 deaths from colorectal cancer are expected in 2001. More than one-third of colorectal cancer deaths could be avoided if people over 50 had regular screening tests. Most colorectal cancers begin as polyps. Colorectal cancer starts with no symptoms. Screening tests are so important because they can find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers.
Screening tests can help prevent colorectal cancer by finding pre-cancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Risk increases as we age. The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age. In fact, most cases occur in people 50 and older. Both men and women are at risk.