Cologuard
This test identifies atypical DNA in stool and the presence of blood. This kit is available on prescription from a doctor, but it is also available from one of the company’s telemedicine providers. This screening should be done by people older than 45. You can buy a lot through your insurer.
Colorectal cancer and health
In the United States, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. Although anyone can develop this type of cancer, its risk factors are:
- having excess body weight or obesity [1]
- living a sedentary lifestyle
- eating a diet low in fruit and vegetables
- eating a low fiber and high fat diet
- consuming large quantities of processed meats
- smoking
- drinking alcohol [2]
Colorectal cancer grows slowly and detecting precancerous polyps or small lesions helps prevent further damage. Colorectal cancer screening tests, like a FIT and a colonoscopy, make early diagnosis possible. Whether an individual does a colonoscopy or FIT test depends on their assessed risk. The American Cancer Society (ACS) describes average risk as:
- no history of colorectal cancer [3] or polyps
- no family history of colorectal cancer
- no history of Crohn’s disease [4] or any form of inflammatory bowel disease
- no history of hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome
- no history of radiation treatment to the belly