FAQ

• What is colorectal cancer?

  Colorectal cancer, or CRC, is a disease of the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. Unlike most cancers, colorectal cancer is often preventable with screening and highly treatable when detected early. Most cases of colorectal cancer occur in people ages 45 and older, but the disease is affecting younger people more often. Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United States.

• Why is screening important?

  Colorectal cancers often don’t produce symptoms until they advance or grow larger, so on-time colorectal cancer screening is essential. If you do have colorectal cancer, doctors can catch it earlier with screening. Treatments work best when the cancer is in an early stage and "localized," which means it has not spread outside the colon or rectum. Localized cancers have a 91% five-year survival rate. As the cancer spreads beyond the colon or rectum, survival rates decline.

• When should I get screened?

  On-time colorectal cancer screening is lifesaving. Screening should begin at age 45 for all people at average risk. People with symptoms, an inflammatory bowel disease, a family history of colorectal cancer, or certain genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome, are among those considered high risk. Speak with your doctor about getting checked earlier.

• What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

  Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms. When they occur, colorectal cancer symptoms may include:

  • Blood in or on stool
  • Persistent unusual bowel movements like constipation or diarrhea
  • Stomach pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away
  • Losing weight for no reason

• How does screening work?

  Screening helps to find growths (polyps) inside the colon and rectum. Most colorectal cancers begin as a small, non-cancerous polyp. Not all polyps will become colorectal cancer, but many do. The good news is that screening helps to find polyps so they can be removed, preventing a possible cancer diagnosis.

• What if I can't afford to pay for a screening test or the costs associated with screening?

  It's important to be aware that under the Affordable Care Act, screening is covered as a preventative measure for average-risk populations with insurance. The Alliance recommends talking with your doctor, insurance provider, or local gastroenterologist to learn more about your coverage and possible financial assistance options. In addition, you can connect with the Alliance’s patient and family support team at (877) 422-2030 for further guidance and resources.

• What if I still have questions about colorectal cancer screening?

  If you have questions about specific screening tests, who should be screened and when, or anything else related to colorectal cancer screening, we encourage you to visit the Colorectal Cancer Alliance website, talk with your doctor, or call the Alliance’s toll-free Helpline at (877) 422-2030.