People with Medicare Part B coverage who are age 50 or older are eligible for colorectal cancer screening. However, in the case of colonoscopy, there is no age limit.

A: Most insurance plans help pay for screening tests for people aged 50 years or older. Many plans also help pay for screening tests for people under age 50 who are at increased risk for colorectal cancer. Check with your health insurance provider to determine¡­¡­

Scientific data do not currently suggest that there is one best test. Each test has advantages and disadvantages. Patients and their doctors are encouraged to discuss the benefits and potential risks associated with each screening option as they decide which t

Although virtual colonoscopy and stool DNA testing are in use in some settings, data are not yet sufficient to support these tests for colorectal cancer screening. Research studies are being conducted to evaluate their effectiveness as screening tests, especia

Several tests can be used to screen for colorectal cancer. These tests are used alone or in combination with each other

These symptoms can also be associated with other health conditions. If you have any of these symptoms, discuss them with your doctor. Only your doctor, through testing, can determine why youre having these symptoms.

Having regular screening tests beginning at age 50 could save your life. Colorectal cancers almost always develop from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum.

All men and women aged 50 years or older should be tested routinely for colorectal cancer. Others who are at increased risk should speak to their doctors about earlier or more frequent testing.

There is strong scientific evidence that having regular screening tests for colorectal cancer beginning at age 50 reduces deaths from colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer occurs in men and women of all racial and ethnic groups. Approximately 75% of colorectal cancers occur in people with no known risk factors.

Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer in the United States. In 2004, the American Cancer Society estimates that 146,940 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 56,730 people will die of the disease.

The exact cause of most colorectal cancers is not yet known, however research has established that approximately 75% of colorectal cancers occur in people with no known risk factors.

Screening is when a test is used to look for a disease before there are any symptoms. Cancer screening tests are effective when they can detect diseases early and lead to more effective treatment or when they can detect disease before it has become cancer and

Cancer is an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. Colorectal refers to the colon and rectum, which together make up the large intestine. Colorectal cancer can originate anywhere in the large intestines.