In average-risk adults, which screening approach is described for colorectal cancer?

In average-risk adults, which screening approach is described for colorectal cancer?

• A. Colonoscopy every 10 years starting at age 50
• B. Annual fecal occult blood testing
• C. Colonoscopy every 5 years starting at age 40
• D. CT colonography every 2 years

Answer: (B)

Regular screening for colorectal cancer in average-risk adults can be done with several approaches, and one commonly described option is an annual stool-based test. Fecal occult blood testing looks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer or large polyps. It’s noninvasive and can be done at home, making it a frequently taught, accessible screening pathway. If the test is positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed to locate and remove any lesions. Other schedules shown have issues with standard practice. A colonoscopy every ten years is a valid screening option but involves a more invasive procedure and isn’t described in every context as the primary screening method for all patients. CT colonography and colonoscopy intervals like every two or five years aren’t aligned with common guidelines for average-risk individuals, making them less fitting descriptions in this scenario.

Regular screening for colorectal cancer in average-risk adults can be done with several approaches, and one commonly described option is an annual stool-based test. Fecal occult blood testing looks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer or large polyps. It’s noninvasive and can be done at home, making it a frequently taught, accessible screening pathway. If the test is positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed to locate and remove any lesions.

Other schedules shown have issues with standard practice. A colonoscopy every ten years is a valid screening option but involves a more invasive procedure and isn’t described in every context as the primary screening method for all patients. CT colonography and colonoscopy intervals like every two or five years aren’t aligned with common guidelines for average-risk individuals, making them less fitting descriptions in this scenario.