By Kevin Krautsak, M.D.

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. However, when detected early, it is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer. A colonoscopy is the gold standard for colon cancer screening, offering a powerful tool to detect precancerous polyps and early-stage cancers before symptoms appear.

The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals at average risk begin regular colon cancer screenings at age 45. This is a change from the previous guideline of 50, due to a concerning rise in cases among younger adults. Colonoscopy is typically repeated every 10 years if no abnormalities are found, though frequency may increase based on findings or risk factors.

Recent trends show a troubling increase in colon cancer diagnoses among people under 50. This rise in early-onset colorectal cancer has prompted health care professionals to stress awareness of symptoms such as rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss—regardless of age. While the reasons for this increase are still under investigation, factors like diet, lifestyle, obesity, and gut microbiome changes are believed to play a role.

Family history is another critical factor. If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who has had colon cancer or pre-cancerous polyps, especially if they were diagnosed before age 60, your risk is significantly higher. In such cases, screening should begin at age 40, or 10 years earlier than the age at which the family member was diagnosed—whichever comes first. Genetic counseling may also be recommended to evaluate inherited syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis.

The good news is that colon cancer is highly curable when detected early. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for localized colon cancer (confined to the colon or rectum) is over 90%. This makes early screening and timely detection crucial. During a colonoscopy, doctors can remove polyps before they become cancerous, essentially preventing cancer altogether.

Colonoscopy is a vital screening tool that can save lives. Starting at age 45 for average-risk individuals, and earlier for those with a family history, this simple procedure has the power to detect cancer early or prevent it entirely. Don’t wait—talk to your doctor about when you should start screening.

Kevin Krautsak, MD is a Colonoscopist, Colon & Rectal Surgeon at Buffalo Medical Group. Schedule your routine colonoscopy today with Buffalo Medical Group. Call 716-630-1405 to make an appointment. Learn more at https://www.buffalomedicalgroup.com/staff/kevin-krautsak-md.