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When to start getting screened?
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kat4190 posted:
Hi, I was wondering when is the best time to start getting screened for colorectal cancer? I am only 21, but my aunt was diagnosed with stage 3 when she was only 29, so it's something I would like to stay on top of, since I know I am at high risk. Thanks.
2 Replies |Watch This Discussion | Report This| Share this:When to start getting screened?Hi, I was wondering when is the best time to start getting screened for colorectal cancer? I am only 21, but my aunt was diagnosed with stage 3 when she was only 29, so it's something I would like to stay on top of, since I know I am at high risk. Thanks.
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lsspn50 responded:
The American Cancer Society recommends that healthy individuals get screened at age 50, UNLESS there is a family history. In your case, since your Aunt was diagnosed at such a late stage at such an early age, I would recommend that you get screened right away. But check with your insurance first to be sure that they will cover this screening; you may have to have a primary care doctor write a script to justify screening at such an early age.

My mom was recently diagnosed with Stage III colon cancer, as well. How long ago was your aunt diagnosed and is she cancer free still? I'm very worried that my mom's cancer will come back.
Report This| Share this:When to start getting screened?The American Cancer Society recommends that healthy individuals get screened at age 50, UNLESS there is a family history. In your case, since your Aunt was diagnosed at such a late stage at such an early age, I would recommend that you get screened right away. But check with your insurance first to be sure that they will cover this screening; you may have to have a primary care doctor write a script to justify screening at such an early age.<br /> <br />My mom was recently diagnosed with Stage III colon cancer, as well. How long ago was your aunt diagnosed and is she cancer free still? I'm very worried that my mom's cancer will come back.
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kat4190 replied to lsspn50's response:
She has been cancer free for almost 20 years now, but she has to wear a colostomy bag for the rest of her life.
Report This| Share this:When to start getting screened?She has been cancer free for almost 20 years now, but she has to wear a colostomy bag for the rest of her life.
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