Colorectal Cancer Screening Program

Colorectal cancer often begins as polyps which are abnormal growths in the colon or rectum that can turn into cancer over time. There are often no warning signs. Finding and removing polyps early increases your chance of preventing colorectal cancer or detecting it early when it is most curable.

How common is colorectal cancer in Prince Edward Island?

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer in PEI. Between 2018-2022, there were 553 new colorectal cancer cases diagnosed in Island residents. On average, 39 people die from colorectal cancer in PEI each year.  

How do I get screened for colorectal cancer?

For Islanders with no symptoms and no family history of colorectal cancer or polyps:

Screening every two years between the ages of 50 and 74 is recommended using a fecal immunochemical test (FIT). The FIT checks for hidden blood in your stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer. This test can be completed at home and is available for free. 

For Islanders with a family history (i.e. 1st degree relative) of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps:

A colonoscopy is recommended at age 40, or 10 years earlier than your youngest affected relative (mother, father, brother, sister, child). See your primary care provider to discuss a referral for a colonoscopy. If you do not have a primary care provider, call the Nurse Navigator with the Colorectal Cancer Screening Program at 1-855-733-0762 (toll-free) or 902-288-1123 to self-refer for a colonoscopy.