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Colon cancer is now the number one cancer killer in the U.S. of people ages 50 and younger, and yet many folks (at any age) are reluctant to get a colonoscopy -- the gold standard for detection of precancerous polyps and cancer. Fully 30% of you who are eligible for a screening test haven't had one. Doctors are desperate to have more folks tested and more cancers prevented or cured.

That's the motivation for the new American CANCER Society (ACS) standards that expand colon-cancer screening choices to include an annual blood test that looks for cancer DNA that's been shed by a tumor. Experts say it doesn't detect pre-cancerous polyps or early cancers as well as other options, but it's better than nothing. (Just how stubbornly reluctant are you to get a higher quality test?)

The ACS also recommends Cologuard, an at-home stool test that checks for cancer DNA (it's to be used every three years). Screening by colonoscopy, a blood test or an at-home stool test should start at age 45, or earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, are overweight or obese, physically inactive, smoke or drink a lot of alcohol.

You can also help protect yourself from colon cancer by opting for a fiber-rich diet, free from toxic ingredients in highly processed foods and inflammatory favorites like French fries, added sugars, and red and red processed meats. For help with colon-friendly food choices, check out my books "What to Eat When" and the "What to Eat When Cookbook."

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.