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Talk to the Veterans Crisis Line now

We're here anytime, day or night – 24/7

If you are a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one, connect with our caring, qualified responders for confidential help. Many of them are Veterans themselves.

Call 988 and select 1
Text 838255
Start a Confidential Chat
Call TTY if you have hearing loss 800-799-4889
Get more resources at VeteransCrisisLine.net

Aged 45 or older? Get screened for
colorectal cancer at home with a FIT test

Ask your VA health care provider about your individual risk level and options for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening.
Colorectal Cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers in the US
Each year, VA diagnoses approximately 4,000 new cases of colorectal cancer in Veterans
Screening is crucial to detect cancer early, when treatment is most effective.

Common Colorectal Cancer Screening Questions, Answered

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is cancer in the colon or rectum. It's a leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. But when this cancer is found and removed early, the chances of a full recovery are very good. Because colorectal cancer rarely causes symptoms in its early stages, screening for the disease is important. Learn More.

What is a FIT test? How do I get screened at home?

Many abnormal growths (e.g., polyps or cancers) in the colon bleed. A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a screening done at home that checks for blood in stool that you can't see. Screening with FIT can catch cancer and polyps early. Watch this video to learn more about the process.*(Skip past ad for FIT content).

Do I need to be screened?

Adults aged 45-75 without any known increased risk of colorectal cancer should be screened with one of the following, based on a conversation with their primary care provider:

  • Home-based FIT test every year
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years, or every 10 years with a FIT every year
  • Colonoscopy every 10 years

Learn more

Will I need a colonoscopy?

If a FIT test comes back abnormal, a follow up colonoscopy is necessary. During a colonoscopy, polyps can be removed before they become cancer. Your VA provider will help you determine the right next step for your situation.

Talk to Your VA Provider about FIT Testing and Colorectal Cancer Screening

To find out if a FIT test is right for you, visit My HealtheVet to speak with your VA health care provider. You can also explore VA's Decision Aid Tool about FIT tests and colorectal cancer screening.