skip to main content

Colorectal cancer screening — ABIM Board MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateGastroenterology/HepatologyColorectal cancer screeningABIM Board

A healthy 45-year-old with no gastrointestinal symptoms, family history, inflammatory bowel disease or hereditary cancer syndrome asks about colorectal cancer prevention. What should be recommended?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Begin average-risk colorectal cancer screening now using an accepted strategy

The best answer is “Begin average-risk colorectal cancer screening now using an accepted strategy”. Average-risk screening begins at age 45. Options include stool-based and direct-visualization strategies selected through shared decision-making; abnormal noncolonoscopy tests require colonoscopic follow-up. CEA and routine abdominal CT are not screening strategies, and symptom-triggered testing is not prevention.

Reference: USPSTF Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendation: https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/colorectal-cancer-screening