Colorectal Cancer Screening

You have choices when it comes to colorectal cancer screening

There are three options for colorectal (colon and rectal) cancer screening. The best test is the one that gets done. Review your options here, then talk to your provider about getting the test you feel most comfortable completing.

Screening should begin at age 45 for those at average risk.

View colorectal cancer screening information in: English   Spanish   Vietnamese

Colonoscopy (visual exam)

• A colonoscopy is the gold standard for screening and takes place at a hospital or doctor office
• Uses a tube with a tiny camera to look for and remove abnormal growths in the colon/rectum before they become cancerous
• Done every 10 years generally, although this may vary depending on risk or results of the screening
• A prep is required for this procedure; however, preps have greatly improved in recent years; the prep is done the night before the procedure
• Covered by most insurance plans
• Abnormal growths (polyps) are removed during the procedure for evaluation

To receive this test, ask your provider for an order.

View Colonoscopy and Learn More

Multi-targeted Stool DNA Test^® (Cologuard^®)

• An at-home test
• Detects abnormal DNA and blood in the stool sample
• Done every 3 years
• No prep is needed; you will collect a stool sample and mail it in to a lab
• Covered by most insurance plans
• If positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed

To receive this test, ask your provider to request that a test kit be sent to you.

FIT/FOBT (fecal immunochemical test/fecal occult blood test)

• An at-home test
• Detects blood in the stool sample
• Done once a year
• No prep is needed for FIT; FOBT requires changes to diet and medications; you will collect a stool sample and mail it in to a lab
• Covered by most insurance plans
• If positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed

To receive this test, ask your provider to request that a test kit be sent to you.

If you have questions about these test options, please talk to your provider.