Listen to Dr. Archelle Georgiou discuss colon cancer screening options, then talk to your doctor about your choice.
Every one to two years
You put a sample of your stool into the test kit and send it to a lab. The lab can detect traces of blood in the stool. If traces of blood are detected, you need a follow-up colonoscopy.
A stool test you do at home with no special preparation.
Every three years
You put a sample of your stool in the test kit and send it to a lab. The lab can detect traces of blood and abnormal cells (DNA) in the stool. If traces of blood or DNA are detected, you need a follow-up colonoscopy.
A stool test you do at home with no special preparation.
Every ten years
While sedated, the provider inserts a scope into your rectum and colon. They look for polyps and cancers. If found, they'll remove polyps and biopsy them during the colonoscopy.
A visual test done in a hospital or surgery center. You'll prepare with a special diet and laxatives.
Talk to your doctor about which type of colon cancer screening is best for you.