A colonoscopy is an exam where the entire colon is examined by a physician. If polyps are found, they can be snipped off and biopsies can be done. Some form of anesthetic is used for the procedure, which is usually done in a hospital on an outpatient basis. A digital rectal exam, on a yearly basis, is recommended for people age 40 and over. This exam is done by a physician inserting his or her gloved finger into the rectum.
Some physicians begin screening patients with a test to determine blood in the stool.
Others recommend a proctosigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy after a certain age. Each person should talk with his or her physician to determine what tests will be done as a screening. This procedure is usually done in the doctor's office. Of course, it depends on the stage of the disease. If colon cancer is found early, often surgery is the only treatment.