Colorectal cancer:
- 3rd most common cancer in the US
- 2nd leading cause of death from cancers
- Most common in people age 50+
If the doctor finds a growth in your colon, it can be removed before it becomes dangerous. With regular screenings, 6 out of 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented
Catch it early with a screening. There are 3 main types of colorectal cancer screening tests: colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and stool tests. Each test has pros and cons.
- Colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy require to drink a laxative that makes you go to the bathroom a lot, also you need to get a ride to and from the hospital or doctor’s office for the potentially uncomfortable risky test.
- For a colonoscopy, you get anesthesia, may need to take a whole day off from your normal activities until the anesthesia wears off, and get a ride to and from.
- For a flexible sigmoidoscopy, may not need anesthesia, may need part of the day off. No time off for stool test.
- If the results are normal, colonoscopy 10 years after; flexible sigmoidoscopy 5 years. Stool tests must be done every year.
- a special kit to collect a small amount of your stool at home and return it to your doctor or a lab
To find out which test you might prefer, CLICK HERE to answer some questions. Then share the results with your doctor. Together, you and your doctor can choose the best test for you.
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