Colon Cancer Screening & Prevention Program

Cancers of the colon and rectum are sometimes called colorectal cancer, or just colon cancer. At NYU Langone, we’re working to help prevent colon cancer and to detect it at its earliest stages, when it’s highly curable.

Most colon cancers develop from precancerous growths called polyps. Precancerous polyps and early colon cancers often cause no symptoms. This is why colorectal cancer screening is key to early detection and prevention. Several types of screening tests are available, including colonoscopy, which is the most comprehensive method to screen for colon cancer.

Current guidelines recommend that people who are at average risk for colon cancer begin screening at age 45. Those with certain risk factors—including a family history of advanced polyps, called adenomas, or colorectal cancer—should begin screening at an earlier age, in accordance with their health provider’s guidance.

Screening Options for Colon and Rectal Cancers

According to the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer Screening, people age 45 or older should consult with their provider to choose one of the following first-line colorectal cancer screening options:

• colonoscopy
• FIT test

At NYU Langone’s Colon Cancer Screening and Prevention Program, our gastroenterologists are highly trained and skilled in performing colonoscopies. Through this screening, they can detect and remove polyps before they turn into cancer, or detect colon cancer in its earliest stages. Our gastroenterology offices and procedure centers are conveniently located throughout New York City and Long Island.

Two other screening tests, the FIT test or FIT kit, and the multitarget DNA stool test, called Cologuard, can be performed at home. A follow-up colonoscopy is only required if test results are abnormal.

Learn more about colonoscopy, other screening tests, and how and when we screen for colon cancer. Your primary care provider or a gastroenterologist can help you decide which option is best for you and schedule a screening.

A Modern Approach to Colon and Rectal Cancer Screenings

At NYU Langone’s Colon Cancer Screening and Prevention Program, we are dedicated to studying the newest technologies—including innovations in artificial intelligence—to help make colonoscopy and other screening methods even more effective.

Our experts collaborate closely with referring physicians, primary care physicians, and other specialists to ensure a comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-centered approach to care. If you receive a diagnosis of colon cancer, our experts at NYU Langone’s Perlmutter Cancer Center can partner with you to create a highly specialized, personalized plan for treatment, care, and support.