Fact:At least 6 out of every 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented if all men and women aged 50 years or older were screened routinely.

Fact:The American Cancer Society estimated that in 2011 about 141,210 people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the US.

Fact:The American Cancer Society estimated that in 2011 about 49,380 people died of colorectal cancer in the US.

Fact:Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer.

Fact:Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the US.

Fact:Overall, 90% of new cases and 94% of deaths occur in individuals 50 and older.

Fact:Colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates are highest in African American men and women.

Fact:One of the most consistently reported relationships between colon cancer risk and behavior is the protective effect of physical activity.

Fact:The goals of screening for colorectal cancer are the prevention of cancer through the detection and removal of precancerous growths and the diagnosis of cancers at an early stage.

How To Prepare

Virtual Colonoscopy

Virtual colonoscopy is an exam used to detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and rectum.

During a virtual colonoscopy, an imaging technique known as computerized tomography (CT) is used to produce hundreds of cross-sectional images of the abdominal organs. The images are combined and digitally manipulated to provide a detailed view of the inside of the colon and rectum. Unlike traditional colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy doesn't require sedation or the insertion of a scope into the colon.

When is Virtual Colonoscopy used?

Virtual colonoscopy is one option used to screen for colon cancer and often can be used when a colonoscopy cannot be safely completed due to a variation in the person’s colon anatomy and concern for a higher risk of a perforation or when the risk of sedation is very high due to underlying medical conditions. One significant drawback of a virtual colonoscopy is that polyps cannot be removed and, if they are noted, a colonoscopy is required for polyp removal. Discuss your colon cancer screening options with your doctor to determine whether virtual colonoscopy is the right option for you.