Colon cancer rates are rising in adults under 50 — MetroHealth offers the latest screening options to detect colon cancer early.
March 17, 2026
Contributed by: Joseph K. Daprano, MD / Internal Medicine-Pediatrics
Colon Cancer Screening 101: What’s New and What to Know
Colon cancer is one of the top causes of cancer deaths in the U.S. Each year, almost 110,000 adults are diagnosed. The good news: Screening can help find cancer early when it’s easier to treat.
At MetroHealth, our providers offer the full range of advanced screening options. Internal Medicine-Pediatrics primary care provider Joseph Daprano, MD, explains what you need to know about colon cancer prevention, screening tests and why early detection is important.
Why Screening Matters More Than Ever
In the past, people started screening at age 50. Today, experts recommend starting at age 45 if you are at average risk. This change helps doctors find cancer earlier.
Some people who are at increased risk need to start screening earlier, including people who have:
- A family history of colon cancer or certain types of polyps
- A family history of hereditary cancer syndromes (like Lynch syndrome)
- A personal history of colon cancer or polyps
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Symptoms like blood in stool, stomach pain or unexplained weight loss
- A history of abdominal radiation or pelvic cancer
If you’re 75 or over, ask your provider if you still need screening.
If you’re 45 or older, it’s time to get screened.
Talk with your primary care provider about which screening option is best for you. To schedule an appointment, call 216-My-Metro or schedule online.
Colon Cancer Screening Options
There are several options for colon cancer screening. Your provider can help determine the best test for you.
- Colonoscopy
This is the most thorough screening test. It’s done with sedation and usually repeated every 10 years if results are normal. During a colonoscopy, your doctor can remove any polyps to stop cancer before it starts. - FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test):
This at-home test checks for blood in your stool. You do it once a year. If blood is found, your provider will order a colonoscopy. - FIT-DNA Test (Cologuard®):
This at-home test checks for blood and DNA changes. If anything unusual is found, your provider will order a colonoscopy.
Not sure which test is right for you? Talk with a MetroHealth provider.
Updated Colonoscopy Prep: A Better Patient Experience
Preparing for a colonoscopy is easier than it used to be.
- Easier prep: New options use smaller amounts of better-tasting liquid or pills.
- More comfortable sedation: Short-acting medicine helps you fall asleep and wake up quickly. You’ll need someone to drive you home.
- Short test time: Most colonoscopies take only 30 to 60 minutes.
MetroHealth provides colonoscopies at the following locations:
What Happens if a Polyp is Found During Your Colonoscopy?
If a polyp is found during your colonoscopy:
- The polyp and any others found will be removed and tested.
- Some types of polyps never turn into cancer. In that case, your next colonoscopy would be in 10 years.
- Other types of polyps CAN turn into cancer. Treatment and timing will depend on the type, size and number of polyps found.
Your MetroHealth provider will explain your test results and any next steps. If needed, we’ll help create a treatment plan that fits your needs.
Insurance Coverage: What You Should Know
Most insurance plans fully cover screening colonoscopies and many at-home tests. A colonoscopy done after a positive at-home test may have a different cost.
Check with your insurance company to confirm your benefits or talk with a MetroHealth financial counselor to help you understand your insurance benefits.
Lifestyle Steps for Prevention
You can lower your risk of colon cancer by:
- Drinking 64 ounces of water daily
- Eating fewer red or processed meats
- Eating more vegetables
- Exercising at least 150 minutes a week
- Limiting alcohol and caffeine
- Staying at a healthy weight
- Not smoking
The MetroHealth Advantage
MetroHealth makes colon cancer screening simple and convenient. Our experienced providers help you choose the right test and guide you every step of the way.
If you’re 45 or older, it’s time to get screened.
Talk with your primary care provider about which screening option is best for you. To schedule an appointment, call 216-My-Metro or schedule online.
Your Questions Answered
Q: When should I start colon cancer screening if I have a family history?
A: Start screening 10 years before the age your family member was diagnosed. For example, if they were diagnosed at 40, you should begin at 30.
Q: Do all polyps need to be removed?
A: Yes, because they need to be evaluated under a microscope to determine if they are precancerous or not.
Q: What are the symptoms of colon cancer?
A: Some people have no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Blood in your stool
- Bleeding from your rectum
- Bloating
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Cramping
- Feeling full
- Trouble emptying your bowel
- Unintended weight loss
- Vomiting
