HEALTH MATTERS
ulcerative colitis or Crohn's, Lynch Syndrome and others. Because a colonoscopy is a costly - and time-consuming - procedure involving days of unpleasant preparation, sedation and recovery, many people put it off. Learn more about colonoscopies and other screening methods at ColorectalCancer.org.
Stool DNA test
If you're at average risk for CRC and 45 or over, you'll need a prescription for an at-home stool DNA test kit. You then send the sample to a lab for results in a couple of weeks. This kind of test uses a combination of stool-based DNA and hemoglobin testing to detect abnormal cells that can indicate the presence of cancer. Most insurers cover the cost only if you're 45 or older, but you should check your health insurance plan for specifics.
Blood tests
Recently approved blood-based screening tests can detect colorectal cancer by analyzing specific biomarkers in your blood. On the plus side, they can be combined with other routine blood work, but they do require going to the lab, getting stuck with a needle, and waiting for results. Since these tests are still relatively new and insurance coverage may vary, it's a good idea to
check with your provider.
FIT test
Fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) look for the presence of hidden blood in stool, offering a simple, non-invasive alternative for those hesitant about colonoscopies or interested in more frequent testing. Reese's ColoTest, for example, is an affordable, easily accessible screening option available without a prescription. With just one stool sample and no prep or dietary restrictions, you can self-test at home as often as you like - without the hassle of lab processing.
Unlike some FIT tests that require sending a sample to a lab and waiting days for results, Reese's ColoTest delivers results in just one minute. ColoTest is 98.8% accurate in detecting hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early warning sign for colorectal cancer and other conditions, including diverticulitis, gastrointestinal disorders, colitis and polyps. It's available at pharmacy retailers nationwide and online, including Walmart, Amazon and over 7,000 CVS Pharmacy stores, plus on CVS.com.
"Researchers found that people who had FIT testing done every year had a 33% lower chance of dying from colorectal cancer," said Jeffrey Reese, president of Reese Pharmaceutical. "FIT tests can be started at a younger age and repeated every year, providing earlier detection opportunities - especially for anyone with a higher risk."
The bottom line? Screening for colorectal cancer has never been easier - or more important. Whether you choose a colonoscopy, a stool-based test or a simple FIT test, the key is to get screened. Early detection saves lives, and with new, more convenient options available, there's no reason to put it off. To learn more, visit MyColoTest.com.