Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. No matter what your age, there is a lot you can do to lower your risk of developing it: there are many lifestyle changes that will successfully lower your risk.
The best way to detect colorectal cancer is to have screening tests performed on a regular basis after the age of 50 or sooner if there is a family history of this cancer or if you have had a predisposing condition. These tests may find non-cancerous tumors, called polyps, that sometimes develop into cancer. By finding them early and having them removed, you can prevent cancer from starting. Colorectal cancer screening tests include checking a stool sample for hidden blood, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy and barium enema. Talk to a health care professional about which ones may be right for you.