Colon cancer screening
Finds colon cancer early - or polyps before they ever become cancer. One of the most effective screenings available.
TypeProcedure · Stool
HowA home stool test (FIT or stool DNA) or a colonoscopy.
How oftenFrom 45: FIT yearly, stool DNA every 1–3 years, colonoscopy every 10 years.
BeforeColonoscopy needs bowel preparation the day before.
WhoEveryone 45–75, earlier with family history.
Screening that prevents cancer, not just finds it
Most colon cancers start as small polyps that grow slowly over years. Finding and removing them stops cancer before it begins.
Start at 45
“When should I begin?”
For average risk. Earlier with family history or symptoms.
Age 45+
Home test
“Do I need a colonoscopy?”
A FIT kit at home is a valid first option - a positive result leads to colonoscopy.
Simple start
Colonoscopy
“Which is best?”
Finds and removes polyps in one step. Every 10 years if normal.
Most thorough
Is it right for you?
Worth considering if…
- You’re 45 or older.
- A parent or sibling had colon cancer or advanced polyps.
- You have symptoms like blood in stool or a change in habits - see your provider now.
A better option if…
- You have symptoms - you need diagnostic testing, not screening.
How it’s measured
FIT
Home stool test for hidden blood, yearly.
Stool DNA test
Home test for blood and DNA changes, every 1–3 years.
Colonoscopy
A camera examines the whole colon, every 10 years.
The full picture
What is it?
Tests that look for colon cancer or precancerous polyps.
What type of test is it?
A screening test - stool-based or procedure.
What does it measure?
Hidden blood, DNA changes, or direct view of the colon.
Why might someone consider it?
Colon cancer is common and very preventable with screening.
Who is it most relevant for?
Adults 45–75, earlier with risk.
How is it performed?
A home stool kit or colonoscopy under sedation.
How often might it be considered?
FIT yearly; colonoscopy every 10 years if normal.
What can the result help you understand?
Whether you need further testing or polyp removal.
What are its limitations?
Stool tests can miss polyps; colonoscopy needs preparation and sedation.
What should it be viewed with?
Family history, symptoms and calprotectin.
Where to get it
Through your provider
Your primary care provider can order or refer.
Screening programmes
Many health systems offer dedicated screening.
Specialist clinics
For higher-risk or follow-up testing.
Names are examples only, not endorsements. Your provider can often order the same test - and help interpret it.
Connected to
Questions to ask your provider
- Which screening option suits me?
- Should I start earlier because of family history?
Ziva Health
One test is a snapshot. Ziva shows the whole story.
Ziva brings your lab results, wearables and daily readings together - and Isabella tells you what’s changing and what to ask your provider next.
Refer Ziva to my provider / care team
Is your provider not on Ziva yet? Send them a link in under a minute - once they join, they’ll see your Colon cancer screening result alongside your other trends and get alerts directly.
Refer my providerAlready seeing your provider?
Bring your Ziva 30-day report to your next appointment - your Colon cancer screening result and daily trends in one view, so the conversation starts with the full picture.
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Being listed doesn’t mean everyone needs this test. Educational only — not medical advice. Results should be interpreted with a qualified clinician. ← Back to Know What to Test