Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common type of non-skin cancer, and it rarely shows symptoms until the disease is already advanced. Early detection is crucial. When detected early, 90% of cases can be cured.
It’s recommended that individuals at average risk should start being screened for colon cancer at age 45.
What kind of screening tests are available?
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is performed by a gastroenterologist. It uses a long, flexible instrument to evaluate the lining of the colon and rectum. Abnormal areas can be sampled and removed . The colonoscopy is the gold standard and the test least likely to miss a cancer.
- If normal, a colonoscopy is performed once every 10 years
- If abnormal, a colonoscopy may be done every three to five years
Cologuard
Cologuard is a noninvasive test that uses DNA technology to detect cancerous and precancerous lesions in your stool. The test is ordered by your physician and you’ll receive a kit to perform the stool sample at home, then send it back in the mail.
- If normal, Cologuard is performed every three years
- If abnormal, a colonoscopy will be recommended
FOBT Test
FOBT Test is a noninvasive test that detects blood in your stool. Your doctor will provide you with the supplies to collect your sample at home and return the cards to your doctor’s office.
- If normal, FOBT testing is done once per year
- If abnormal, a colonoscopy will be recommended
CPRIT Grant
Some patients may qualify for a free colonoscopy through the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT). To learn more or to see if you qualify, call 903-877-1461 or email CRC.Outreach@uthct.edu. For more information about the CPRIT, click here.
For more information and screening locations, click here.