Over the years, technological advancements have made more minimally invasive surgeries possible, which leads to quicker recovery time  and shorter hospital stays for patients.

Dr. Patrick Szeto, colorectal surgery at CHI St. Vincent explains, "The recommendation is that they get a colonoscopy at 50 years old, but definitely if you have a family history, you should get it earlier."

Healthy diet and lifestyle are also a big part of avoiding colon cancer, but it is still important to be screened. Dr. Szeto says, "Everybody hates the prep, but I think that it's something you have to do...If you get a good colonoscopy at 45 and you're cleaned out and there's no polyps, then you're good for 10 years."

Learn more about Dr. Patrick Szeto and the CHI St. Vincent Colorectal Surgery Clinic.