3rd most common type of cancer.
51% increase of colon cancer rates in adults under 50 since 1994.
75% of people with colon cancer have no family history.
90% colorectal cancer survival rate with early detection.
Most people should begin screening at age 45.
Screening determines the presence of precancerous polyps in your colon. Discuss with your Manet provider which screening is right for you based on risk, convenience and other factors. Learn more about screening options below.
Screening Options
Stool DNA Test (like Cologuard), FOBT or FIT Test
Tests for signs of blood in stool
- Timeline: Every 3 years (Stool DNA Test) or Annually (FOBT or FIT Test)
- For low-risk patients with no family history of colorectal cancer.
- At Home Test: Stool can be collected at home
- Less Preparation and No Sedation: Doesn’t require sedation, insertion of a scope or much preparation (though some foods or meds may need to be avoided in advance of FOBT/FIT)
- Less Sensitive: Less sensitive than colonoscopy at detecting precancerous polyps. The tests can also show a false-positive result.
- May need colonoscopy: If abnormalities found.
Colonoscopy
A long flexible tube with a tiny video camera is inserted into the rectum
- Timeline: Every 10 years if no abnormalities
- One of the most sensitive tests: Can view entire colon and rectum and remove and biopsy polyps during exam
- Requires Preparation: Colon cleansing, diet changes and possible medication adjustments
- Requires Sedation: Sedation is used and may take hours to wear off – someone will need to drive you home
- Possible discomfort after procedure: Cramping or bloating might occur afterward
- Rare Risks: Include bleeding or tears in the colon or rectum
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy is similar to Colonoscopy but only examines the colon’s lower third, should be repeated every 5 years, requires no sedation and less prep and recovery.
Virtual Colonoscopy
A CT scan across the abdomen
- Timeline: Every 5 years
- No Sedation: Doesn’t require sedation or the insertion of a scope into the colon.
- Preparation Required: Cleansing of the bowel, diet changes and medication adjustments.
- Low Radiation Exposure: The radiation level is lower than amount used in a diagnostic CT scan
- May need colonoscopy: If abnormalities found
- Possible discomfort after procedure: Cramping or bloating might occur afterward.
How to Use Your Cologuard Test Kit at Home
Your kit will be sent to you and include everything that you need to collect your stool sample in four easy steps.
1. Use the toilet seat bracket and sample container to collect your bowel movement
2. Scrape bowel movement with probe and cover sample with liquid preservative
3. Label, pack and mail sample
4. Get your results and discuss with your provider!