Final answer:
Individuals with first-degree relatives who have Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) should start colorectal cancer screening in their teen years, around 10-12 years old. This is recommended due to the high risk of colorectal cancer associated with FAP. The specific screening approach should be decided in consultation with a healthcare provider.
Step-by-step explanation:
Individuals with first-degree family members diagnosed with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) should start colorectal cancer screening at an earlier age than the average risk population. While routine screening for the general population usually begins at middle age, FAP is a hereditary condition that significantly increases the risk of colorectal cancer, often at a young age. Therefore, it is recommended that FAP screening should start in the teenage years, with some guidelines suggesting beginning as early as 10-12 years of age. Continual monitoring is essential as individuals with FAP have a nearly 100% lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer without preventive measures such as surgery.
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and medical professionals should provide specific recommendations based on individual risk factors and family history. All testing methods, including less invasive ones like stool-based tests and visual exams like colonoscopy, have their pros and cons. The choice of screening method should be decided in consultation with a healthcare provider, who can tailor the approach based on the patient's age, family history, and other risk factors.