Colorectal Cancer Screening
Start screenings at age 45
Did you know a colonoscopy can actually prevent colorectal cancer?
Screening should begin at age 45 for those at average risk.
There are three options for colorectal (colon and rectal) cancer screening. Review your options here, then talk to your provider.
Colonoscopy (visual exam)
- A colonoscopy is the gold standard for screening and takes place at a hospital or doctor office
- Uses a tube with a tiny camera to look for and remove abnormal growths in the colon/rectum before they become cancerous
- Done every 10 years generally, although this may vary depending on risk or results of the screening
- A prep is required for this procedure; however, preps have greatly improved in recent years; the prep is done the night before the procedure
- Covered by most insurance plans
- Abnormal growths (polyps) are removed during the procedure for evaluation
To receive this test, ask your provider for an order.
View Video of a Colonoscopy
Stool DNA Test
- An at-home test
- Detects abnormal DNA and blood in the stool sample
- Done every 3 years
- No prep is needed; you will collect a stool sample and mail it in to a lab
- Covered by most insurance plans
- If positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed
To receive this test, ask your provider to request that a test kit be sent to you.
FIT/FOBT (fecal immunochemical test/fecal occult blood test)
- An at-home test
- Detects blood in the stool sample
- Done once a year
- No prep is needed for FIT; FOBT requires changes to diet and medications; you will collect a stool sample and mail it in to a lab
- Covered by most insurance plans
- If positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed
To receive this test, ask your provider to request a test kit be sent to you.
Request a test from Lancaster County or the state of Nebraska
If you have questions about these test options, please talk to your provider.
Find a Provider
Don’t Just Find Cancer – Prevent It
Did you know that there’s only one cancer you can prevent with a screening? Unlike many tests that only detect problems after they appear, a colonoscopy can find – and remove – precancerous polyps to prevent colorectal cancer from developing.
Read Blog
Screening Spotlight: Advances in Colon Cancer Detection
Dr. David Newton leads a discussion on advancements in screening for colon cancer, and the importance of early detection.
Listen to Podcast
