Colorectal Cancer: Get Screened Before You Have Symptoms

June 23, 2026

Fact: Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

Should I Get Screened?

If you are age 45 or older, schedule a colorectal cancer screening today—even if you have no symptoms or known risk factors. Colorectal cancer screenings save lives!

Colorectal Cancer Screening

The two most common tests for colorectal cancer are:

1. Colonoscopy
2. Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)

Memorial Sloan Kettering recommends getting a colonoscopy at age 45. Colonoscopies can find and prevent cancer.

FIT checks for blood in your stool, and while it can be done at home, it is less comprehensive than a colonoscopy.

No-Cost Screening for Eligible NYCDCC Members

Eligible NYCDCC members and dependents who meet applicable screening guidelines may receive recommended in-network cancer screenings at no cost.

Schedule a Screening Today

Need help finding a provider or scheduling an appointment?

Active NYCDCC members and dependents – find a provider through Independence Administrators here

Medicare-Eligible retirees and dependents – find a provider through UnitedHealthcare here

You can also request an appointment through MSK here

Most colorectal cancers can be prevented or detected early through routine screening. If you are age 45 or older, talk with your healthcare provider about the screening option that is right for you.

Learn More

The NYCDCC Benefit Funds has launched the “This Is Not A Drill” Cancer Screening campaign to help NYCDCC families live longer, healthier lives.

Visit nyccbf.org/cancer to learn about available cancer screenings, determine which screenings may be appropriate for you, and find information on how to schedule them.