A person who has already had colorectal cancer may develop colorectal cancer a second time. Also, research studies show that women with a history of ovarian, uterine, or breast cancer have a somewhat increased chance of developing colorectal cancer. If many family members have had colorectal cancer, the chances increase even more. Ulcerative colitis is a condition in which the lining of the colon becomes inflamed. People who have ulcerative colitis are more likely to develop colorectal cancer.
Screening tests are examinations that check for health problems before they cause symptoms.
They are important because finding health problems at an early stage often means that treatment will be more successful. Colorectal cancer screening tests are used to detect cancer, polyps that may eventually become cancerous, or other abnormal conditions. Most people who undergo colorectal screening do not have any colorectal abnormality. For those who do, diagnosis and treatment can occur promptly. Doctors may suggest one or more of the tests listed below as a part of regular checkups.