Which are common colorectal cancer screening modalities recommended by USPSTF?

• A. Colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, stool-based tests (e.g., FIT, gFOBT)
• B. MRI colonography, CT colonography, stool-based tests
• C. Colonoscopy only
• D. Flexible sigmoidoscopy only

Answer: (A)

USPSTF endorses a menu of colorectal cancer screening options rather than a single test, so the best answer reflects the broad set of commonly recommended modalities. Colonoscopy is a key option because it visualizes the entire colon and allows polyp removal in one visit. Flexible sigmoidoscopy screens the distal colon and is another endoscopic approach with demonstrated benefit. Stool-based tests, such as FIT or guaiac-based FOBT, offer a noninvasive screening route that can be done at home and repeated on an appropriate interval. Together, these categories—endoscopic procedures and noninvasive stool-based tests—represent the range of commonly recommended strategies used in practice and endorsed by USPSTF. Choices that emphasize MRI colonography or restrict screening to a single modality don’t capture the multi-option framework USPSTF supports, and while some guidelines may recognize additional imaging options, the combination listed here best reflects the standard, widely endorsed modalities.