Most colorectal cancers begin as small, slow‑growing polyps that can be removed long before they become dangerous. With routine screening, colorectal cancer is highly preventable, yet many people still put off the test that could save their life.
What exactly is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. The colon is also known as the large intestine and is the U-shaped, segmented tube made of muscle that is located below the stomach. The rectum is the final segment of the large intestine. Colon cancer is a type of colorectal cancer.
How common is colorectal cancer?
In the United States, colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths when numbers for men and women are combined, and it’s expected to cause about 55,230 deaths during 2026.1
In Florida, it is the third-leading cause of cancer death. It is estimated that in Florida in 2026, there will be 12,850 new cases (males and females combined), and it is estimated that over 4,000 will die in 2026.2
How does colorectal cancer start?
One important thing to know is that colorectal cancer usually does not start overnight. Most cases develop over time from precancerous polyps.
Polyps are small growths that can form inside the lining of the colon or rectum. Most polyps are not cancer at first, but some types can slowly change and become cancer if they aren’t found and removed.
That’s why screening is such a big deal with colorectal cancer, because a colonoscopy can actually find those polyps early and remove them before they turn into cancer.
When should I start getting screened?
If you’re at average risk for colorectal cancer (which means you don’t have medical, genetic, or family factors that raise your risk) the recommendation is to start screening at age 45. If you’re in good health, you should continue regular screenings until age 75.
For adults ages 76 to 85, screening isn’t “one‑size‑fits‑all.” Instead, it’s a personal decision based on your overall health and previous screening history. If you’re in this age range (or older than 75), it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor about whether screening is right for you.
People who are at higher risk, for example because of family history or certain medical conditions, should ask their doctor when to begin screening, which test they should choose, and how often to be screened.3
What are the ways I could get screened?
Good news! You have options when it comes to screening, and some can even be done at home!
• Stool‑based tests: These at‑home tests are lower cost, don’t require bowel prep or sedation, and are simple to complete. The only catch is that they need to be done more often, and if a result comes back abnormal, the next step is a colonoscopy.
• Visual exam tests:
These are done in a doctor’s office or health facility and typically require bowel prep. Because they provide a direct look at the colon, they don’t need to be done as frequently. Options include a traditional colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, and flexible sigmoidoscopy.
A colonoscopy is the only test that can find and remove polyps during the same exam, which helps prevent cancer before it starts.
And here’s another piece of good news:
If you’re at average risk, you only need a colonoscopy once every 10 years. This is a step that can protect your health for years to come.
What are some other steps you can take to reduce your risk?
Being physically active, following a healthy eating routine, not drinking alcohol, and achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce your cancer risk. Find out more here!
The Bottom Line:
Early screening is one of the most powerful steps you can take to spot issues early, stay in control of your health, and prevent colorectal cancer.
A Free Resource to Help You Navigate a New Cancer Diagnosis
If you or someone you love is facing a new cancer diagnosis, there’s also a free online course available through a partnership between the University of Florida Health Cancer Center and UF/IFAS Extension. “Taking Control of Your Cancer Diagnosis” covers financial planning, managing stress, avoiding predatory practices, and more, each module taught by a subject‑matter expert. It’s designed so you can use the information whenever you need it. Find the course here.
References:
- American Cancer Society Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer Colorectal Cancer Statistics | How Common Is Colorectal Cancer? | American Cancer Society
- American Cancer Society Cancer Statistics Center. Florida | American Cancer Society (accessed 3/17/26)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Screening for Colorectal Cancer Screening for Colorectal Cancer | Colorectal Cancer | CDC
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