With more than 200,000 new cases each year, colon cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer and can often begin in early stages as a noncancerous polyp and present with no symptoms. As the second most common cause of cancer-related death, early detection is key to achieving a positive outcome. It is because of this that cancer physicians highly recommend regular screening beginning at age 50 or for those who meet the following risk factors: "¢ Overweight/Obesity "¢ Physical inactivity "¢ Diet high in red and processed meat "¢ Smoking "¢ Heavy alcohol use (two drink per day for men, 1 per day for women) "¢ Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease "¢ Family history (first degree: parent, sibling or children) "¢ Racial background (African American is the most common) "¢ Type 2 diabetes Screenings includes: "¢ Colonoscopy "¢ High-sensitivity fecal occult blood testing "¢ Sigmoidoscopy To learn more about Karmanos Cancer Institute care at McLaren Oakland or to schedule an appointment for a colorectal cancer screening, visit https://www.karmanos.org/karmanos/karmanos-cancer-institute-mclaren-oakland-home.