A 47-year-old man presents to your clinic for a routine physical. He considers himself to be “fairly healthy” and
doesn’t routinely go to the doctor. His last physical was five years ago. In reviewing his chart, you see that his
BMI is 30, he exercises twice a week at the local gym, and he does not take any medication. Part of your
discussion during today’s visit is about screening for colorectal cancers. He did endorse some constipation in
the review of systems. He noted an uncle in his family history who was diagnosed at age 54 with colon cancer.
You begin to talk about colorectal screening, and the patient interrupts you and tells you that he is only 47 and
that he should not have to worry about it until he is 50.
What are the recommendations and source(s) for the colorectal cancer screening test?
The patient thinks he does not have to worry about “being screened” until age 50. Is he correct? Why or why
not? What age would you recommend screening for this patient and why? Does his family history come into
play here?
What age would you recommend screening for this patient and why? Does his family history come into play
here?
What are the screening options for this patient, and which would you recommend? Why?
Sample Solution
