Have screening questions?
The free Blue KC Care Management app makes it easy to get your questions about cancer screening answered. Download it now and use the access code kclinksupport to connect.
Everything you need to know about colon cancer screening
If it’s time to schedule this important test, you probably have questions. Here’s a look at what you can expect.
Have you recently scheduled a colon cancer screening? Whether it’s your first one or your fourth, congratulations on doing something great for your health. Staying on top of this preventive cancer screening is a key wellness move for men and women.
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). But it’s also the most preventable. This type of cancer forms in the last part of your intestine. And regular screening tests can detect it early, when it’s most treatable. Some tests can even prevent cancer by removing polyps (precancerous growths) before they turn into cancer.
Everyone between the ages 45 and 75 should get regular colorectal screenings, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. If you have a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors, your doctor might suggest starting screening even earlier.
You have options when it comes to tests. A colonoscopy is done by a doctor. Stool-based tests look at your stool for possible signs of cancer and can be done at home. The ACS recommends a colonoscopy every 10 years, or stool-based tests every one to three years.
Here are some things you need to know about your screening options.
What happens at a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is performed in a doctor’s office or surgery center. The doctor uses a thin, flexible, lighted tube with a small video camera on the end to examine your rectum and colon. Here’s what to expect before, during, and after the test.
Prep: Several days before the test, you’ll have to stop eating certain foods that can be difficult to fully remove from the bowel. Your doctor will give you instructions on this process.
The night before, you’ll drink a formula to clean out your bowels. This will cause frequent diarrhea. Be sure to stock your bathroom with soft toilet paper and plenty of wipes.
The purpose of the prep is to guarantee that there are no waste products in your colon. This way, your doctor has a clear view of your colon lining for the entire test.
Sedation: At the testing center, you’ll receive a sedative to make you feel sleepy. Many people worry that a colonoscopy is painful so the sedation helps your body to relax. Because you may still be dizzy or groggy afterward, you’ll be required to have a friend or family member pick you up and drive you home.
The test: The test itself typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Once you’re sedated, your doctor inserts the scope into your rectum. The camera on the end sends an image to a video monitor. The doctor can find and remove most polyps on the spot, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If your doctor finds any other abnormal areas, they’ll remove a sample and have it checked for cancer.
Recovery: You’ll feel tired and groggy as you wake up. You’ll likely need to stay at the surgery center for about an hour. Your doctor will discuss the results of the screening with you. They’ll let you know if any polyps were removed or if they’re having any tissue biopsied.
You’ll need to take it easy for the day as the sedation completely clears your system. Have a healthy snack, drink water or juice, and put your feet up. If your doctor doesn’t find anything out of the ordinary and you’re at average risk, you can wait 10 years until your next colonoscopy.
What are my at-home testing options?
People who are at average risk of colon cancer can opt for one of two types of home tests. These tests are safe, easy, and don’t require any prep. But you need to do them every one to three years. And if the results are abnormal, you will need a follow-up colonoscopy.
Fecal immunochemical test (FIT): This test looks for blood in the stool, which often isn’t visible to the naked eye. You’ll use a stick or brush to swab your stool, then smear it on a test card. Then you’ll mail the card to a lab, where it will be tested.
FIT tests are about 74% accurate, according to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. Trace amounts of blood might show up in your stool as a result of cancer or polyps, but it can also be from hemorrhoids or ulcers. If your results come back normal, you should plan to take the test again in a year.
FIT-DNA test: This test, which goes by the brand name Cologuard, checks for DNA changes and blood in the stool. The accuracy level of this test is 92%. You collect an entire stool and put it into a sample container filled with a preservative solution. Then you’ll send it to a lab for testing. If your results are normal, you should plan to do the test again in three years.
How much will my screening cost?
The Affordable Care Act requires private insurers and Medicare to cover the cost of your colorectal cancer screening — whether it’s an at-home test or an outpatient colonoscopy.
In most cases, there should be minimal or no out-of-pocket costs for these tests, according to the ACS. Before you get your screening test, it’s a good idea to check with your insurance about how much (if anything) you should expect to pay for it.
Bottom line: No matter which colon cancer screening test you choose, the important thing is to get screened. Talk to your doctor about the right test and the best screening schedule for you. And if you know you’re overdue for a screening test, what are you waiting for? Schedule yours today.
Additional sources:
Screening guidelines: American Cancer Society
Comparing types of screenings: American College of Surgeons
Colonoscopy facts: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; American Cancer Society
At-home tests: National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus; Colorectal Cancer Alliance
Insurance and screening: American Cancer Society
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you read in this article. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Neither Blue KC nor its employees, nor any contributor to this information, makes any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use.
