Why screening starts at 45
Colon cancer is no longer a disease of older age. New research by JAMA released in January 2026 shows that colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death among men and women under 50. This troubling trend continues to rise, reinforcing the importance of early detection and why national guidelines now recommend colon cancer screening beginning at age 45.
If you feel healthy and have no symptoms, that is exactly when screening matters most.
Key points
- Colon cancer often has no early warning signs
- Screening at age 45 saves lives
- Early detection leads to simpler treatment and better outcomes
Why a colonoscopy matters
A colonoscopy is the most effective way to prevent colon cancer.
During the procedure, your doctor can find and remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. This means a colonoscopy is not just a test. It’s prevention.
Waiting until symptoms appear can mean cancer is already advanced. Screening gives you the chance to stop cancer before it starts.
Want to learn more? Here are 4.5 more reasons 45-year-olds should get screened today.
Common questions, answered
What happens during a colonoscopy?
During a colonoscopy, a physician will visually examine your colon using a colonoscope. Any polyps (abnormal growths in the lining of the colon) found during the procedure will be immediately removed, which prevents them from growing and developing into colon cancer.
Is a colonoscopy painful?
People often put off scheduling a colonoscopy for fear of embarrassment or discomfort, but the entire procedure is completely private. You will be mildly sedated and completely comfortable throughout the procedure. Most people remember little to nothing about the procedure.
Is the preparation difficult?
Preparation is minimal and includes a cleanse of the colon to allow a clearer view during the procedure. Instructions vary based on the laxative you are prescribed. It is also advised to follow dietary instructions three days before your procedure.
How long is recovery?
Most people return to normal activities the next day.
Is it safe?
Colonoscopy is a routine, low-risk procedure performed by Prevea Health’s expert doctors. All facilities have the latest colonoscopy equipment. All facilities also offer private rooms for preparation and recovery.
Is a colonoscopy my only screening option?
No, but it is the most effective screening option available and recommended by doctors as the gold standard for screening. A colonoscopy allows doctors to visually find and remove pre-cancerous polyps in a single procedure. Early detection can prevent polyps from growing into cancer. Other at-home screening options like stool tests are useful for people who can’t or are unwilling to get a colonoscopy.
What to expect
Before
Your primary care provider or GI specialist refers you for screening and you receive clear instructions to prepare.
During
The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes. You are monitored closely for comfort and safety.
After
You go home the same day and resume normal activities within 24 hours.
Local, trusted digestive health care you can count on
Prevea Health's trusted gastroenterology specialists perform colonoscopies at the following locations:
- Prevea Surgery Center in Green Bay
- HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center in Green Bay
- HSHS St. Clare Memorial Hospital in Oconto Falls
- HSHS St. Nicholas Hospital and the Sheboygan Surgery Center in Sheboygan.
You receive personalized care from Digestive Health experts who perform colonoscopies every day, using advanced technology to support accurate and effective screening. With care close to home, our focus remains on prevention and a long-term commitment to your health.
Why you should schedule now
If you are 45 or older and have not had a colonoscopy, every year you wait increases your risk.
Most health insurance companies, including Medicare, cover colonoscopy; however, we encourage you to contact your insurance carrier to make sure. Prevention should not be delayed. Schedule your colonoscopy today by contacting your primary care provider or by calling Prevea Gastroenterology at:
(920) 429-1700 in Green Bay and Oconto Falls
(920) 457-4400 in Sheboygan
Meet our physicians and providers
Adebisi Alimi, MD
Gastroenterologist
Vikas Khullar, MD
Gastroenterologist
Mark Laukka, MD, AGAF
Gastroenterologist
Kwabena Oware Adu-Gyamfi, MD, FACP
Gastroenterologist
Chaitanya Pant, MD
Gastroenterologist
Marla Wolfert, MD
Gastroenterologist
More resources from Prevea Health
4.5 reasons 45-year-olds now need to be screened for colorectal cancer
Colon cancer
