At age 40 begin annual colonoscopy. Annual stool hemoccult tests, urinalysis, and blood tests for liver function starting when colonoscopy begins. Consider annual upper endoscopy in families with gastric cancer. Colonoscopy is recommended every year for a person with a positive gene test. If colon polyps or cancer is found, follow the treatment guidelines.
Early diagnosis is important for early detection and prevention of cancer.
Regular screening should start at the ages described in the exam guidelines above. When colorectal cancer is detected early, the chance of cure is much better. Women at risk should also have yearly endometrial and ovarian screening. Tests such as colonoscopy and barium enema with flexible sigmoidoscopy are available to tell whether polyps or cancer are present in the colon. A colonoscopy is an examination of the rectum and the entire colon.