Colorectal Cancer Self-Assessment
Understanding the Risk
In most people, colorectal cancer develops gradually over several years. It often starts as a benign polyp—an abnormal growth in the colon or rectum—that can become cancerous as cells begin to grow and divide uncontrollably. Left untreated, these cancerous cells may invade nearby tissues and organs.
The Good News: Prevention Is Possible
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Detecting and removing polyps before they turn cancerous is key. Because early colorectal cancer often presents no symptoms, MyMichigan Health strongly encourages regular screening starting at age 45 for individuals at average risk. When detected early, the five-year survival rate can reach up to 90%.
Common Warning Signs
Early detection saves lives. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Narrow or pencil-thin stools
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Persistent abdominal discomfort or cramps
- A sensation that the bowel does not completely empty
- Unexplained weight loss
Screening Options
Screening is your best defense. MyMichigan Health offers the following options:
- Colonoscopy (Every 10 Years) – Considered the gold standard in screening. Polyps can often be removed during the procedure.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy (Every 5 Years) – Examines the lower part of the colon and rectum; polyps can be removed if found. A follow-up colonoscopy may be needed.
- CT Colonography (Every 5 Years) – A virtual colonoscopy using a CT scan to detect large polyps or growths. A follow-up colonoscopy is recommended if results are positive.
- FIT-DNA Test / Cologuard® (Every 3 Years) – A home test that detects hidden blood and DNA changes linked to colorectal cancer. A colonoscopy follows if results are positive.
- Fecal Immunochemical Test / FIT (Annually) – A non-invasive home test that checks for hidden blood in the stool. Positive results should be followed by a colonoscopy.
Know Your Risk
Your personal risk for colorectal cancer depends on factors such as family history, lifestyle, and medical history. Take our quick self-assessment quiz* to help estimate your risk and determine when to start screening.
| 1. Are you 45 or older? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
|
| 2. Does anyone in your immediate family have a history of colon or rectal cancer? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
|
| 3. Do you have a history of polyps in your colon or rectum? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
Unsure = 1 |
| 4. Do you have an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
|
| 5. Are you overweight? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
|
| 6. Do you or have you ever smoked? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
|
| 7. do you exercise on a regular basis? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
|
| 8. Do you have a diet of mostly red meats or processed foods? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
|
| 9. How much alcohol do you drink per day? |
Don't drink = 0 |
0-1 Drinks per day = 0 |
|
| 10. Do you have a diet rich with whole grains, vegetables and fruits? |
Yes = 0 |
No = 1 |
|
| 11. Are you at risk or have type 2 diabetes? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
|
| 12. Have you ever been diagnosed with breast, cervical, uterine, or ovarian cancer? |
Yes = 1 |
No = 0 |
|
If you have a score of 9 or higher and are 45 years or older, talk to your health care provider about colorectal cancer screening.
*Note: The self-assessment quiz is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for a full evaluation.
Cologuard® is a registered trademark of Exact Sciences Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.
