Doctors use the Cologuard and Colonoscopy tests for those 45 and older to help monitor blood in the stool, abnormal DNA, and precancerous cells. Cancer often starts with a growth, more commonly known as a polyp. Colon cancer is preventable using both the Cologuard and the Colonoscopy. But check the fine print before you skip the Colonoscopy!
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, and rates are rising, particularly in adults ages 20 to 49. Unfortunately, approximately 30% of eligible people in the US still have not been screened for CRC. Colon cancer screening decisions: What’s the best option and when? – Harvard Health
Colonoscopy, the gold standard
Test is 95% effective for detecting colon cancer and identifying large polyps
Cleansing preparation at home the day before
Light sedation while the doctor views the colon for polyps, then removes them simultaneously
Recommended every ten years
Insurance covers
The Cologuard, 13% false-positive rate leads to further assessment with Colonoscopy
Test is 92% effective for identifying cancer but only for 42% of the larger growths
A stool sample is obtained at home and then mailed to the lab
With the discovery of polyps, the next step is a colonoscopy
Recommended every three years
Depending on the insurance, partially covered
Those at high risk for colon cancer
A family history of Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative colitis
African American or Ashkenazi Jewish descent
Warning symptoms to ask your doctor about
A change in your bowel regimen, for example diarrhea or constipation
Abdominal pain, cramps, or gas
Weight loss
When screening is performed regularly and polyps are found, the survival rate is 90%.
Colonoscopy vs. Cologuard: Which Is Right for You? – Health News Hub
