Colorectal Cancer Screening
The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screenings at age 45 [4].
There are different types of screenings for colorectal cancer. Some should be performed annually, while others are only necessary every 5 to 10 years. Your doctor can help you determine which type of test to choose [5]:
- Imaging Tests: Screening procedures like the colonoscopy are highly effective at detecting cancer. Your doctor will be able to identify areas of concern and take biopsies for further testing. In addition, these tests allow doctors to remove benign polyps before they can develop into cancer. The procedure requires significant preparation to empty the bowel, and it must be performed under anesthesia.
- Stool Sample Tests: Stool testing is far less complicated than imaging tests and can be performed at home. You can get a colon cancer home test kit known as an Immunological Fecal Occult Blood (iFOB) test to collect a stool sample. The sample is sent to a lab to test for the presence of blood. Blood in stool can be a sign of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps. A positive stool test does not mean you have cancer, but it is an indication that you should get a colonoscopy as a follow-up test.
The ACS suggests the following frequency for different tests [4]:
- Fecal occult blood testing every year
- Multi-targeted stool DNA test (mt-sDNA) every three years
- Colonoscopy every ten years
- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every five years
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy (FSIG) every five years
People with higher risk factors may need to start colorectal cancer screening before age 45, be screened more often, and/or get specific tests.
Why Choose an At-Home Colon Cancer Test?
For people who do not have an elevated risk of colorectal cancer, home testing is an alternative to colonoscopy. Fecal occult blood test kits are effective, easy to use, and less stressful than other types of tests.
According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, the benefits of fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) include [6]:
- Ease of use
- Done at home on your schedule
- No need to change diets or medicines before the test
- No prep solutions to drink
- Inexpensive and covered by most insurance plans
If an at-home colon cancer test shows the presence of blood, it doesn't automatically mean a diagnosis of colorectal cancer. Blood from other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, can trigger a positive result from a stool test kit [7]. A positive test means you should follow up with your doctor. You will probably need to get an imaging test to determine whether there are polyps or cancerous growths in your colon.
How To Decide on a Colorectal Cancer Screening Plan
Your doctor can help you assess your risk and advise you on which test is right for you. The Colonox Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is an easy, reliable option for a colon cancer home test kit. The test kit comes with everything you need to collect a sample in the privacy of your home, including easy-to-read instructions. Results are sent to you and your doctor.
Choosing a safe, reliable colorectal cancer screening method is one of the best ways to protect your health. Talk to your doctor to learn more.
