Originally published: 10.OCT.2021
Last updated: 13.AUG.2024
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Conway
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States, excluding skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or the rectum) is estimated to be about 1 in 23 for men and 1 in 25 for women.¹
Screening is what’s used to spot cancer before it begins to show symptoms. As of 2018, ACS lowered the colorectal cancer screening guidelines from 50 to 45 as a response to the rising rates of colon cancer cases among those under the age of 50.² There are many colorectal cancer screening testing options including visual exams such as a colonoscopy, or stool-based tests such as LetsGetChecked’s fecal immunochemical test (FIT) screening test.
- What test is done to check for colorectal cancer?
- Can I screen for colorectal cancer from home?
- What are the risk factors of colorectal cancer?
- When should you check for an infection?
What test is done to check for colorectal cancer?
The following are types of colorectal cancer screening tests:
- Visual exams (Colonoscopy, Sigmoidoscopy): These tests examine the structure of the colon using a flexible tube to detect any abnormalities.
- Stool-based tests (Fecal Occult Blood test, Fecal Immunochemical test, Stool DNA test): These tests check the stool (feces) for signs of cancer. Any abnormal result from these tests will need to be followed up with a colonoscopy.
Screening tests are only used if you do not already have bowel symptoms. If you already have symptoms such as blood in your stool, a change in bowel habits, or abdominal pain, a screening test is not suitable and you should speak with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Can I screen for colorectal cancer from home?
If you are experiencing symptoms, the LetsGetChecked home sample collection kit is not suitable and you should speak with your healthcare provider.
If you choose a stool-based test and would prefer to take your sample from the comfort of your home, the LetsGetChecked FIT is a great first step in your colorectal cancer screening journey.
LetsGetChecked’s colon cancer screening test can help identify the presence of cancerous or precancerous growths in the bowel by detecting blood that is invisible to the naked eye. Before taking this test, it’s important to keep in mind:
- There is a possibility that this screening test may not detect blood in the stool of someone who has cancer, which is called a false negative. It is very important to talk to your doctor if you have any symptoms or concerns, even if your test results are normal.
- This test cannot diagnose cancer - it is a screening test, which means it can help identify when there is a problem (i.e. bleeding) in the colon or rectum that needs to be followed up with your healthcare provider.
- There are many reasons why blood may be present in the stool, including hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), stomach ulcers, and polyps (non-cancerous growths).
The test will arrive in discreet packaging with a return envelope and clear instructions, though it may be helpful to check out the steps here before taking your stool sample collection. Our dedicated team of nurses is available throughout the process for support and to offer any questions you may have. If your test results do return abnormal, the next step will likely be a colonoscopy.
What are the risk factors of colorectal cancer?
Although some risk factors cannot be controlled such as age, personal or family history, and race or ethnicity, there are risk factors that can be controlled.
Other risk factors that can impact your chances of developing colon cancer include:³
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking
- Heavy alcohol use
- Older age
- Family history
- Diabetes
Read more about the lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce your risk for colorectal cancer here.
What are the symptoms of colon cancer?
Symptoms of colon cancer may not be obvious at first and can vary for each person. However, some of the more common symptoms of colon cancer that are worth knowing include: ⁴
- A change in bowel habits, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation.
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool.
- Ongoing discomfort in the belly area, such as cramps, gas, or pain.
- A feeling that the bowel doesn't empty during a bowel movement.
- Weakness or tiredness.
- Losing weight without trying.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms persistently or have concerns regarding your risk for colorectal cancer, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
You can screen for colon cancer with LetsGetChecked’s colon cancer test. The purpose of this test is to identify the presence of blood in the stool, which may be invisible to the naked eye.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults aged 45 to 75, of average risk, should be screened for colorectal cancer. You have an average risk of colorectal cancer if:
- You have no family history of colorectal cancer
- You have no personal history of colorectal cancer, other cancer, or polyps
- You do not have inflammatory bowel disease or any other risk factors for colorectal cancer.
If you have already noticed blood in your stool, or any other symptoms, this screening test is not suitable and you should talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
References
- American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer. Online: Cancer.org
- American Cancer Society. Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines. Online: Cancer.org
- American Cancer Society. Colon Cancer Risk Factors. Online: Cancer.org
- Mayo Clinic. Colon Cancer. Online: Mayoclinic.org
Please note that the following is for educational use only and is not a substitute for medical advice. This content cannot diagnose or provide information about treatment. Consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or need specific medical advice relating to any symptoms, conditions, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not delay seeking medical advice and do not disregard professional medical advice based on this content. Your healthcare provider can provide the most suitable guidance based on your situation.
