You may have heard about colonoscopy. But there are cheaper, non-invasive alternatives.
I don’t have a family history of colon or rectal cancer. But as an African-American male, I should have had a screening at age 45. I will be honest with you: I pushed it to the back burner, even though I am a doctor who helps patients with cancer. I didn’t have time. I had less than positive feelings about the required day-before cleanout. I didn’t have a ride home—so many reasons. I am delighted to report to you that I put such sorry excuses aside. I recently had a screening.
Colorectal cancer is the #3 cause of death among men and women in the United States. On a positive note, polyp removal, early detection, and colon cancer management advances have significantly improved survival odds.
Those of us who are age 50 and older (some leading organizations now recommend discussing with your healthcare provider whether you should have a screening exam at age 45) should consider screening for colon cancer. The good news? If the first test is completely normal, your doctor will likely suggest having another test 10 years later.
So, back to me. I elected to avoid a colonoscopy hassle by doing an alternative (but an evidence-based) test. I chose to do a ColoGuard. This test screens individuals 45 years of age and older who are at average risk for colorectal cancer.
The test detects specific DNA markers and blood in the stool. Some folks are not candidates, including those with adenomas, inflammatory bowel disease, and specific hereditary syndromes, or a personal or family history of colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy represents the gold standard for screening individuals at high risk for the disease.
Here’s how a ColoGuard home test works:
- Receive and unpack your Cologuard kit.
- Place your sample container into the toilet bracket.
- Use your Cologuard kit to collect your sample.
- Scrape your sample, then fill the sample container with the provided preservative.
- Using the prepaid shipping label and send the box back to the test company within 24 hours.
Your healthcare provider or telemedicine provider typically receive results within two weeks.
But the test is imperfect.
A few more posts…
