45 or older? Don’t wait.

To schedule a screening, call 833-423-5569 or fill out our online form. Make your appointment today.

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Take Control and Get Screened for Colon Cancer

45 or older? Don’t wait. Get screened for colon cancer today. Do it for you – and for your family.

Colorectal cancer often starts with no symptoms—but screening can find it early, when it’s easier to treat. When found early, colorectal cancer can be cured in up to 90% of cases.

Most insurance plans and Medicare cover colorectal cancer screening. Financial assistance may also be available.

Colorectal cancer screening can fit your schedule. Depending on the test, prep can range from none to 1–2 days.

Colon Cancer is Rising in Younger Adults. Know When to Get Screened.

Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in people under 50 and it often starts with no symptoms at all. Black and Latino communities can be more affected by colorectal cancer and potentially face more barriers to screening. That’s why regular screening matters, even if you feel healthy.

Most adults at average risk should start regular screening at age 45 and continue through age 75. After age 75, talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.

You’re at average risk if you do not have:

  • A personal history of colorectal cancer or certain types of growths called polyps
  • A family history of colorectal cancer or certain polyps
  • Inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
  • A known or suspected hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
  • A history of radiation to the abdomen or pelvic area

If any of these apply to you, talk to your doctor about when to start screening. Some people may need to start before age 45 or get screened more often.

Colorectal Cancer Screening: What to Expect

You have screening options. Don’t wait to get screened for colorectal cancer. If your doctor recommends screening, schedule it today. Early detection could help save your life. Do it for you—and for the people who count on you.

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There are several recommended screening options for people at average risk, including at-home stool tests and colonoscopy. A stool test can be done at home with no prep or recovery time, while a colonoscopy is done at a clinic or hospital. A colonoscopy is the most complete test because it can help find cancer early and remove growths called polyps during the same procedure. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you.

Some screening options, like FIT and other at-home stool tests, require no prep—just collecting a sample at home. A colonoscopy requires 1–2 days of prep, but it can also find and remove growths called polyps during the same procedure.

Prep depends on the test and your doctor’s instructions. Some screening tests need no prep. For a colonoscopy, you may be asked to follow a clear liquid diet like broth, Jell-O and sports drinks (no orange, purple or red) and use a prep method your doctor recommends. Plan to stay near a restroom the afternoon and evening before your procedure.

Many people worry that a colonoscopy will be painful or unsafe, but today’s screenings are designed with comfort and safety in mind. Before your procedure, you may need a short pre-visit, either in person or virtual. You may also need a referral, depending on your doctor and health plan. If you are 45 or older and have PPO insurance, you may be able to schedule a preventive colonoscopy without a referral. Check with your health plan first. A colonoscopy is usually an outpatient procedure, so you go home the same day. You will get medicine to help you relax or sleep, and your doctor can often remove growths called polyps during the procedure. You may also get results soon after. Because of the sedation, you will need a responsible adult to make sure you get home safely. A taxi or rideshare alone is not enough.

After your colonoscopy, you will rest until the sedation wears off and then go home the same day. If your doctor finds any growths called polyps, they may be removed and checked in a lab. If your results are normal, you may not need another colonoscopy for several years. Many people at average risk get a colonoscopy every 10 years, but your doctor will tell you when to come back.* Serious problems after a colonoscopy are rare, but your care team will tell you what signs to watch for.

*For adults at high risk, testing may be needed more often based on your results, family history and other risk factors. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.

Learn more about getting a colonoscopy

Real Conversations About Colonoscopy

Screen for Life: Strangers with Colons: Bryce and Rahman

Two strangers. One candid conversation about colonoscopies. Bryce and Rahman answer questions about prep, the procedure, and the follow up for this colorectal cancer screening option.

Conversaciones de colon a colon: Josué y Hermán

Dos extraños y una conversación sincera sobre colonoscopias. Obtenga respuestas a sus preguntas con respecto a la preparación, el procedimiento para el examen y el seguimiento de esta prueba que puede salvarle la vida.

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Access a vast network of dedicated and compassionate providers who offer personalized care by focusing on treatment, prevention and health education.

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Colonoscopy Screening

Find Care That's Close to You

Colon cancer is highly preventable when it’s caught early, and today’s screening options are more accessible and effective than ever. Providence offers convenient locations for colonoscopy screenings near you.

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Financial Support and Low-Cost Clinics

In addition to Providence's financial assistance program, there are other available options to help lower or eliminate costs when you’re in need of health care.

Our team of financial counselors can help you enroll in Medicare, Medicaid/Medi-Cal, qualified health plans and other programs. We’ll also point you toward low-cost community clinics in your area.

Learn About Financial Support Options
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Knowledge is Power: The CRC-CHAT Photovoice Project

Providence partnered with community leaders in South Los Angeles and Santa Monica to help raise awareness about colorectal cancer screening in Black and Latino communities. See photos and learn more about the CRC-CHAT Photovoice Project. Available in English and Español.