March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness MonthSchedule Your Screening Today!
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Screening for colorectal cancer on time matters!
Colorectal cancer often starts without symptoms, making early detection not just important, but potentially life-saving. With the right screening, colon cancer can be detected and treated early, leading to a survival rate of about 90% for those caught in initial stages. It’s time to take control of your health, and it begins with understanding your screening options. The American Cancer Society urges everyone at average risk to start regular screenings at age 45 – a small step today for a healthier tomorrow.
Get Screened: Know Your Options
Colonoscopy: The Comprehensive Choice
A colonoscopy is the most thorough screening tool allowing for a direct view of the entire colon and rectum. During this procedure, your doctor can find and remove polyps before they turn into cancer. While it requires some preparation, and is usually done every 10 years, it’s the gold standard for a reason. Colonoscopy doesn’t just detect cancer; it prevents it.
Cologuard: The Convenient Test
Looking for a screening you can do from the comfort of home? The Cologuard stool test could be the answer. This non-invasive option checks for DNA and blood in your stool that could indicate cancer or precancerous conditions. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require any dietary restrictions or bowel preparation. Remember, if positive, a confirmatory colonoscopy is necessary.
FIT/OBT
The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) and Guaiac-based Fecal Occult Blood Test (gFOBT) are tests designed for regular, annual usage. These tests check for hidden blood in the stool, an early sign of cancer or large polyps. They are less invasive tests and can be done quickly at home, with no bowel prep required. Like the Cologuard, a positive result means a follow-up colonoscopy is needed.
Submit the contact form below and we will reach out to
schedule your colorectal screening appointment!
All Shawnee Health clinics are currently closed. If you need to get ahold of the On-Call Provider, call 618-519-9200, press option #1, select your “specialty” needed and follow the prompts for our On-Call Provider. If you are dealing with an emergency please call 911 or visit the ER.