- posted: Aug. 25, 2025
At North Jersey Gastroenterology in Wayne, New Jersey, serving patients from Pompton Lakes, Kinnelon, and surrounding communities, our team stresses one message: colon cancer screening saves lives. Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable when detected early. That is why updated guidelines now recommend screening starting at age 45 instead of 50.
Why Screening Matters
Colon cancer usually develops over many years as small tumors called polyps. These tumors usually do not cause symptoms early on, and waiting until symptoms occur is dangerous. By the time symptoms of bleeding from the rectum, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss are present, the disease is often far advanced. Early detection through colonoscopy allows gastroenterologists to see and remove pre-cancerous polyps before they become cancerous.
Updated Guidelines You Should Know
In previous years, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society lowered the age for standard colon cancer screening from 50 to 45. This was a consequence of the growing number of cases of colon cancer in individuals below the age of 50 years. At North Jersey Gastroenterology, we advise anyone who is turning 45 to schedule an appointment to discuss screening possibilities, even if they are healthy.
Screening Options Available
The gold standard for screening is colonoscopy. It is not just a test for colon cancer, but it also allows polyps to be taken out during the same visit. In some patients, stool tests or other imaging tests can be employed, but typically, as a follow-up if a colonoscopy cannot be performed. Our team works with each patient to decide the best and safest way.
Who May Need Screening Sooner
While 45 is the new standard age, some people may benefit from earlier testing. Risk factors include a family history of colon cancer or polyps, a history of inflammatory bowel disease, or certain genetic conditions. Patients with these risks should discuss customized screening schedules with their gastroenterologist.
Taking the Next Step in Wayne, NJ
Colon cancer is preventable, but prevention only works if screening is done on time. At our Wayne office, serving nearby Pompton Lakes and Kinnelon, patients receive personalized care that keeps prevention front and center. A colonoscopy is a simple step that could make the difference between catching colon cancer early or preventing it altogether.
If you are 45 or older and have not yet been screened, now is the time. Call North Jersey Gastroenterology in Wayne, NJ, at 973-633-1484 to schedule an appointment and take an important step toward protecting your long-term health.
- posted: Aug. 25, 2025
At North Jersey Gastroenterology in Wayne, New Jersey, serving patients from Pompton Lakes, Kinnelon, and surrounding communities, our team stresses one message: colon cancer screening saves lives. Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable when detected early. That is why updated guidelines now recommend screening starting at age 45 instead of 50.
Why Screening Matters
Colon cancer usually develops over many years as small tumors called polyps. These tumors usually do not cause symptoms early on, and waiting until symptoms occur is dangerous. By the time symptoms of bleeding from the rectum, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss are present, the disease is often far advanced. Early detection through colonoscopy allows gastroenterologists to see and remove pre-cancerous polyps before they become cancerous.
Updated Guidelines You Should Know
In previous years, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society lowered the age for standard colon cancer screening from 50 to 45. This was a consequence of the growing number of cases of colon cancer in individuals below the age of 50 years. At North Jersey Gastroenterology, we advise anyone who is turning 45 to schedule an appointment to discuss screening possibilities, even if they are healthy.
Screening Options Available
The gold standard for screening is colonoscopy. It is not just a test for colon cancer, but it also allows polyps to be taken out during the same visit. In some patients, stool tests or other imaging tests can be employed, but typically, as a follow-up if a colonoscopy cannot be performed. Our team works with each patient to decide the best and safest way.
Who May Need Screening Sooner
While 45 is the new standard age, some people may benefit from earlier testing. Risk factors include a family history of colon cancer or polyps, a history of inflammatory bowel disease, or certain genetic conditions. Patients with these risks should discuss customized screening schedules with their gastroenterologist.
Taking the Next Step in Wayne, NJ
Colon cancer is preventable, but prevention only works if screening is done on time. At our Wayne office, serving nearby Pompton Lakes and Kinnelon, patients receive personalized care that keeps prevention front and center. A colonoscopy is a simple step that could make the difference between catching colon cancer early or preventing it altogether.
If you are 45 or older and have not yet been screened, now is the time. Call North Jersey Gastroenterology in Wayne, NJ, at 973-633-1484 to schedule an appointment and take an important step toward protecting your long-term health.