Colorectal cancer screening resources 

Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum. It often starts as small, non-cancerous growths, called polyps, that can become cancer over time. It's the third-most common cancer in both men and women, and the second-leading cause of cancer deaths for men and women combined.

People around age 68 are most often diagnosed, though it can appear much earlier. Most people don't notice symptoms in the early stages, which is why screening is so important. Screening can help find polyps early, before they turn into cancer, or catch cancer early when it's easier to treat.

Anyone can develop colorectal cancer, but your risk is higher if you:

• Are age 45 or older
• Have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Have inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)
• Eat a diet high in red or processed meats
• Use tobacco or drink alcohol regularly
• Are physically inactive or overweight

Even if you don’t have risk factors, regular screenings are still recommended starting at age 45.

Colorectal cancer often develops with no symptoms at first. As it grows, symptoms may include:

• Changes in bowel habits (like diarrhea or constipation)
• Blood in your stool or on toilet paper
• Ongoing abdominal pain, bloating or cramping
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue

If you notice any of these changes, talk to your provider right away. Remember, screenings can find issues before symptoms even start.

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. - but it doesn't have to be. When found early, the 5-year survival rate is about 90%.

Screening saves lives by finding polyps before they become cancer or catching cancer when it’s most treatable.

Stool-based test

• FIT kit (Fecal Immunochemical Test) – This simple, at-home test looks for hidden blood in your stool. It’s done once a year and mailed to a lab in a postage-paid envelope. CareOregon covers at-home FIT kits tests at no cost to members.

Colonoscopy 

This in-clinic test allows a provider to look directly inside your colon and remove any polyps. A doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon. It’s usually done every 10 years if no issues are found and patients have normal cancer risk. Book an appointment through your primary care provider (PCP) or a clinic that offers imaging. Don’t have a provider? Use CareOregon’s Find a Provider tool.

Talk with your primary care provider 

Your provider can help you decide which screening option is best for you. If you have difficulty getting screened due to scheduling, transportation or other barriers, your provider or care coordinator may help with resources. You can also contact CareOregon customer service at 503-416-4100, toll-free 800-224-4840 or TTY 711, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Most people should start at age 45, or earlier if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors. Talk to your provider about what's right for you.

It depends on the test:

• FIT kit: Every year
• Colonoscopy: Every 10 years (or sooner if your provider recommends)

Don’t have a provider? Use CareOregon’s Find a Provider tool.

You'll receive instructions from your doctor before your procedure, which may include fasting and drinking a special solution to clear your colon. During the exam:

• Colonoscopy will require bowel preparation, anesthesia or sedation, and transportation to and from the screening examination
• You’ll lie on your side while a thin, flexible tube with a small camera is inserted into your colon.
• The doctor will look for and remove any polyps.
• The test usually takes 30–60 minutes, and you’ll rest afterward until the sedation wears off.
• Most people return to normal activities the next day.

You'll receive instructions from your doctor before your procedure, which may include fasting and drinking a special solution to clear your colon. During the exam:

• You'll receive a kit in the mail prescribed by your primary care provider, along with step-by-step instructions.
• You'll collect a small stool sample at home. The kit will include everything you need to do this safely and cleanly.
• You won’t need to change your diet or take any medications before the test unless your provider gives special instructions.
• After collecting the sample, you’ll seal it in the container provided and return it using the prepaid envelope or drop-off method included with the kit.

Yes. All colorectal screening options are safe, effective, and widely used. FIT kits are non-invasive, and colonoscopies are done under light sedation for comfort.

Don't panic. Abnormal results don't always mean cancer. Your provider may recommend additional tests to learn more.

All colorectal screenings — including FIT kits and colonoscopies — are covered at no cost for CareOregon members.

CareOregon staff can help arrange transportation if needed. Call Ride to Care at 503-416-3955, toll-free 855-321-4899 or TTY 711. Learn more about what Ride to Care offers here.

Plain-language, culturally responsive materials in multiple languages help members understand why screenings are important. Learn more about our language services here. If you need any help with language services or have any complaints, we want to hear about it. Call CareOregon Customer Service at 800-224-4840 or TTY 711, or send us a secure message.  

Staff are available to answer questions, explain the process and guide you every step of the way. Call CareOregon Customer Service at 800-224-4840 or TTY 711, or send us a secure message.