Colon Cancer Screening and Colonoscopy in Denver

Colorectal Cancer icon design, infographic health. Vector illustration.

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when detected early. At Gastroenterology of the Rockies, we provide comprehensive colon cancer screening and colonoscopy services for patients throughout Denver and surrounding Colorado communities.

Colorectal cancer begins when abnormal cells form in the lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, these cells can develop into precancerous polyps and eventually cancer. A colonoscopy is widely considered the gold standard for screening because it allows doctors to detect and remove polyps during a single procedure.

Routine screening plays a critical role in early detection, improving survival rates, and protecting long-term digestive health.

[Source: CDC & ACGE]

What Is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, refers to cancers of the colon and rectum. It starts when abnormal cells, often precancerous polyps, form in the lining of the colon and can develop into cancer over time. Advanced colorectal cancer may spread through the colon, rectum, or lower intestine (part of the large intestine). Early detection through screenings like colonoscopy can identify precancerous polyps before they become cancerous and improve long-term digestive health.

Why Colon Cancer Screening Matters

Colon cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Many patients feel completely healthy until the disease has already progressed. Screening allows your gastroenterologist to identify and remove precancerous polyps before cancer develops.

Screening is especially important for:

Adults age 45 and older
Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or polyps
Patients with inflammatory bowel disease or other risk factors
Anyone experiencing unexplained digestive symptoms

Men have a slightly higher lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer, but both men and women benefit equally from routine screening and early detection.

Death Rates from Colon Cancer in the United States

Colon cancer is considered the No 3 cause of cancer-related deaths for men and women
American Cancer Society predicts over 55,000 will die from colon cancer in 2026 [Source: American Cancer Society, Jan 2026]

Men are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer than women, regardless of age. Keep in mind that age and lifestyle habits, including smoking, can contribute to risk factors.

Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, when detected early. Colon polyps become more prevalent after age 45, according to the American College of Gastroenterology Endoscopy (ACGE). However, if you have family history of colon cancer, earlier screening may be recommended by your doctor.

When it comes to colon health, finding the right experts in gastroenterology can help you take charge of your digestive health.

Colon Cancer Symptoms

Let’s take a look at some common symptoms linked to colon cancer. Do any of these symptoms look familiar? If you experience any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor or gastroenterologist.

A change in bowel habits, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation
Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
Ongoing discomfort in the belly area, such as cramps, gas or pain
Anemia
A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty all the way during a bowel movement
Weakness or tiredness
Losing weight without trying

[Source: ASGE: National Library of Medicine]

Delayed Onset of Symptoms

Colon cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages. Because some people may not experience warning signs, routine colon cancer screenings are essential starting at age 45. If you have a family history of colon cancer or precancerous polyps, your doctor may recommend starting screenings earlier.

What Causes of Colon Cancer?

Most colon cancers develop from polyps – small cell clusters along the colon lining. While most polyps are harmless, some can become cancerous over time. Removing these polyps during a colonoscopy helps stop cancer before it starts.

Precancerous polyps can grow into cancer if left untreated
Polyps can be flat, raised or mushroom-shaped
During a colonoscopy, we remove and test polyps to identify any abnormal growths

Learn more about other digestive conditions we treat here.

Colon Cancer Screening and Diagnosis

Colon cancer screenings help gastroenterologists diagnose and treat colon cancer by looking at the digestive tract.

To diagnose colon cancer, your GI doctor needs to examine the rectum and anus for colon polyps. The preferred screening method is often referred to as the Gold Standard method: an endoscopic procedure known as colonoscopy. It detects colon polyps in the intestinal tract so your GI doctor can remove them when found.

According to the American College of Gastroenterology, early detection of colon polyps can help prevent colon cancer.

During your visit with a GI doctor, provide your doctor with a detailed family history of colon or other cancers. This helps your doctor give you a diagnosis and this might include treatment plan, if needed.

Screening Methods that Detect Colon Cancer

Why is it so important to screen for colorectal cancer? Screening methods can help detect colorectal cancer at earlier, more treatable stages of growth. For this reason, early detection may prevent cancer because it gives doctors a chance to remove precancerous polyps at earlier stages. [Source: ACG]

Consider screenings as part of your overall digestive care routine. Find a gastroenterologist who can assess your colon health because early detection helps protect your digestive health and well-being.

Here are the common screenings that can detect colon cancer:

Colonoscopy Screening
Flexible sigmoidoscopy
CT or virtual colonoscopy
Fecal immunochemical (FIT)
MT-sDNA (Cologuard)

[Source: ASGE]

Why Colonoscopy Is the Gold Standard

A colonoscopy is the most comprehensive test for colorectal cancer screening. During the procedure, a gastroenterologist examines the entire colon using a flexible camera and can remove polyps immediately if they are found.

Key benefits of colonoscopy include:

Detects and removes precancerous polyps in one procedure
Examines the entire colon
Reduces long-term cancer risk through early intervention
Typically needed only once every 10 years for average-risk patients

If you choose a non-invasive screening test such as a FIT or stool DNA test and the result is abnormal, a follow-up colonoscopy is required for diagnosis and treatment.

Schedule your colonoscopy screening today with one of our GI doctors.

Prevention Tips to Consider with Colorectal Cancer (CRC)

While research on diet and lifestyle is ongoing, maintaining healthy habits supports long-term colon health. According to the National Library of Medicine, here are some heath tips.

Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight
Eat more fruits and vegetables, limit red meat
Avoid eating ultra processed foods
Maintain a health weight
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use

Following these preventive steps with regular screenings can reduce your risk.

[Association of Gastroenterology]

What Is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is the only test that can detect and prevent colorectal cancer by finding and removing polyps during a single procedure. A colonoscopy can be both a screening test that finds undiagnosed symptoms and a diagnostic procedure that finds and treats the cause of potential symptoms.

If you choose a screening test other than a colonoscopy, like a FIT test (fecal immunochemical test), and the result is positive (abnormal), you will need a follow-up colonoscopy.

Colonoscopies also have a high detection rate which correlates with higher survival rates if colorectal cancer is detected in the early stages. Because of these compelling reasons, a colonoscopy is still considered the gold standard for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer, compared to other tests like stool or blood tests.

Find more details about a colonoscopy on our procedures page. Also, learn about GI Genius, an innovative device that uses AI to detect and remove colon polyps.

Recommended Screening Age: 45 Years

When it comes to cancer detection and treatment speed matters. Generally, a one-month treatment delay can increase the fatality rate by 10% — based on a systematic review cited in British Medical Journal. For this reason, early detection screening is a top priority for healthy outcomes.

Cologuard: 42% Detection Rate of Advanced Precancerous Lesions

Designed to detect colorectal cancer–not a prevention strategy
If the test is positive, a colonoscopy is still needed to confirm or remove polyps
Not FDA approved for high-risk patients with family history
Recommended every 3 years
- Translation- higher cost than one colonoscopy screening every 10 years

FIT Test: 30% Detection Rate of Advanced Adenomas, known as pre-cancerous polyps

Designed to find small amounts of blood in the stool
If the test is positive, a colonoscopy is necessary
Not FDA approved for high-risk patients with family history
Recommended every year if results are negative
Significant false positive and false negative test results

What is a false positive?

A false positive result indicates a disease that is not actually there. False positives can often cause unnecessary stress and fear, based on unfounded results.

Get Screened to Find Colorectal Cancer Early

Early-Stage Colorectal Cancer

Approximately 9 out of 10

Survive 5 Years (or longer)

Individuals diagnosed with EARLY STAGE colorectal cancer (CRC) that HAS NOT spread or metastasized beyond the colon or rectum survive 5 years or longer.*

Advanced Stage CRC

Approximately 1 out of 10

Survive 5 Years

Individuals diagnosed with ADVANCED STAGE colorectal cancer (CRC) that HAS spread or metastasized to other organs such as the lungs or liver, survive 5 years.*

Colonoscopy Coverage and Costs

Preventive (Screening) Colonoscopy

A preventive colonoscopy is typically covered 100% by insurance. This procedure is performed for patients without symptoms to check for colorectal polyps or cancer as part of routine colon cancer screening.

Criteria for patients:

Are 45 years or older
Have no gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or rectal bleeding
Have no personal history of colon polyps, colon cancer, or gastrointestinal disease
Have not had a screening colonoscopy in the past ten years

Diagnostic Colonoscopy

A diagnostic colonoscopy is performed to evaluate abnormal findings or symptoms. In this case, the patient may be responsible for copay, coinsurance, or deductible costs.

If you’ve had colon polyps in the past, your next colonoscopy is considered diagnostic.

Criteria for patients:

Have a history of colon polyps
Have been diagnosed with a gastrointestinal disease
Have gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, or abnormal imaging results (CT scan or MRI)

If you have previous colon polyps, current gastrointestinal symptoms, or a personal history of colon cancer, then your colonoscopy is diagnostic.

Colonoscopy Procedure

During a colonoscopy, one of our highly trained and experienced gastroenterologists will use a flexible, lighted tube called a colonoscope to examine the lining of your colon. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. You will receive sedation to help you relax and feel comfortable during the procedure.

How to Prepare for a Colonoscopy

Want the best possible results from your colonoscopy? It’s important to carefully follow the preparation instructions we provide. This usually involves a clear liquid diet the day before the procedure, plus a laxative to empty your bowels.

Our team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for your colonoscopy. We also provide easy-to-follow video instructions. However, if you run into questions, we are a phone call away.

Possible Side Effects and Complications

While a colonoscopy is a safe and effective procedure, there are some possible side effects and complications to be aware of. These can include temporary discomfort, bleeding, and perforation of the colon. However, our team of GI specialists takes every precaution to minimize these risks and so you have a successful and safe outcome.

When to Get a Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is recommended for individuals who are 45 years or older, as well as for those with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors. However, your gastroenterologist may recommend earlier or more frequent screenings depending on your individual risk factors and medical history.

At Gastroenterology of the Rockies, we are committed to helping you maintain your digestive health through the latest technology, state-of-the-art facilities and the highest quality care.

Why Choose Gastroenterology of the Rockies for Your Colonoscopy

When it comes to your digestive health, you deserve the best possible care. That’s why so many people in the Denver area choose Gastroenterology of the Rockies for their colonoscopy.

Here are some reasons why we are top-of-mind for many patients in Denver.

Expertise and Experience

Our team of gastroenterologists is composed of some of the most skilled and experienced specialists in the Denver region. We have performed thousands of successful colonoscopies. Our medical team has the expertise to detect and prevent cancer for many patients.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

At Gastroenterology of the Rockies, we believe that providing our patients with the highest quality care means investing in the latest technology and facilities. Our endoscopy centers are equipped with the most advanced equipment available, ensuring that you receive the most accurate and efficient care possible.

Personalized Care

At Gastroenterology of the Rockies, we understand that every patient is unique. That’s why we take a personalized approach to your care, taking the time to understand your individual needs and concerns. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific health goals.

We Take Our Patients’ Comfort Seriously

We know that the idea of a colonoscopy can be intimidating for some patients. That’s why we go above and beyond to ensure your comfort during the procedure. From sedation options to personalized care from our team, we are dedicated to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

We Have a Strong Commitment to Excellence

At Gastroenterology of the Rockies, we are committed to excellence in every aspect of our practice. From the quality of our facilities to the expertise of our team, we are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care possible. With us, you can be confident that your health is in good hands.

If you’re looking for the best possible care for your digestive health, choose Gastroenterology of the Rockies in Denver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What age should you start colon cancer screening?

Most adults should begin colon cancer screening at age 45. People with a family history of colorectal cancer or certain medical conditions may need to start earlier based on their doctor’s recommendation.

Q: How often should you get a colonoscopy?

If no polyps are found and you are at average risk, a colonoscopy is typically recommended every 10 years. If polyps are detected, your doctor may recommend more frequent screening.

Q: Is a colonoscopy covered by insurance?

Preventive screening colonoscopies are often covered at 100% by insurance when eligibility requirements are met. Diagnostic colonoscopies may involve out-of-pocket costs depending on your plan. See our Colonoscopy Costs Page (add URL)

Q: What happens if polyps are found during a colonoscopy?

Polyps are usually removed during the procedure and sent to a lab for testing. Removing polyps helps reduce the risk of future colorectal cancer.

Q: Do I need a colonoscopy if I feel healthy?

Yes. Colon cancer often develops without symptoms. Screening helps detect issues early, before symptoms appear.