Colon and Rectal Cancer Screening and Diagnosis

Screening for Colon and Rectal Cancers

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States for both men and women. Diagnosing it early gives you the best chance of a cure. Early colon cancer may cause little or no symptoms. Thankfully, there are screening tests that may not only detect colon cancer in its earliest stages, but actually prevent colorectal cancer from developing by removing potentially precancerous growths called polyps. 

We offer a variety of screening options, including: 

• Colonoscopy: A comprehensive examination of the colon and rectum using a flexible camera. 
• Stool Tests: Non-invasive tests that detect blood or cancerous cells in the stool. 

Who should be screened for colorectal cancer? 

Guidelines have changed in recent years, and it is now recommended that adults age 45 to 75 who are at average risk get screened for colorectal cancer. Your doctor will let you know how often you should be screened. If you are older than 75, talk to your doctor about screening. 

If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other factors that increase your risk of colon cancer, you may need to start screening sooner and/or have it more often. Speak with your doctor about when to start screening and which tests are appropriate.

Colon Cancer Screening Appointments 

• Colonoscopy: Englewood Health offers colonoscopies at our main hospital campus in Englewood as well as at the Northern New Jersey Center for Advanced Endoscopy in Englewood Cliffs. To make an appointment for a colonoscopy, start by speaking with your primary care provider or a gastroenterologist. Find a doctor now
• Stool tests: Stool test options may also be available from your primary care doctor or a gastroenterologist.

Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis and Staging

Cancer treatment today is highly tailored to the specific features of each person's tumor. We used advanced diagnostic tools to better understand the biology of your tumor and make recommendations for treatment.

If you have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, our pathologists will analyze tissue samples and DNA. We also perform a process called staging to see how much your cancer has grown or spread. The results of these tests are essential for guiding treatment planning. For example, we can determine if your cancer needs to be treated aggressively or if it contains specific genetic changes that make you eligible for certain medications.