Prevent and Detect Colorectal Cancer Early through Regular Screenings
Posted 08/21/24
Colorectal Cancer Screenings
Get screened to prevent or catch cancer early!
Colon cancer is the fourth-most-common cancer found in men and women (excluding some skin cancers). Many cancers are not detectable until in later stages, but colorectal cancer can be found early or even prevented through regular screening. There are several screening options available, though, for most people, colonoscopy is preferred.
Some benefits of a colonoscopy are:
- Precancerous polyps can be removed during the procedure.
- Recommended frequency of screening is every 10 years (for those without an increased risk of colorectal cancer).
- If something unusual is discovered using a different screening, a follow-up colonoscopy would be recommended.
Below is a chart of the colorectal cancer screening options with recommended frequency and screening location. Talk with your doctor about which screening would be best for you.
| Screening Test | How Often Screening Is Recommended | Where It's Done |
|---|---|---|
| Fecal Occult Blood Test (gFOBT, iFOBT) | Every calendar year (between ages 45–75) | At home |
| Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) | Every calendar year | At home |
| DNA-based Test: Cologuard® | Every three years | At home |
| Flexible Sigmoidoscopy OR Screening Barium Enema | Every five years | At facility |
| Colonoscopy Screening | Every 10 years | At facility |
Colorectal cancer screening is now recommended for people aged 45–70 years due to an increase in diagnoses in those under 50. The overall drop in colorectal cancer rates over the years has been attributed to increased screening.
Get screened—avoid cancer altogether or catch it much sooner, when it’s easier to treat.
Generations Advantage covers in-network preventive colorectal cancer screenings at the recommended age and frequency at no cost. Please see your Evidence of Coverage for details.
