Frequently Asked Questions

Colorectal Cancer Screening

  • Can I prevent colorectal cancer?

    Early screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent colorectal cancer. In addition to getting screened, the following factors can help reduce your risk: avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, keeping track of your medical history, and exercising. Talk to your doctor or other health care professionals about how you might lower your risk of cancer.

  • I do not have a family history of colorectal cancer, do I still need to get screened?

    Yes! Even if you do not have a family history of colorectal cancer, it is still essential to get screened for colorectal cancer. While having a family history of colorectal cancer does increase your risk, the majority of colorectal cancers occur in people without a family history. Age is an important and universal risk factor for developing colorectal cancer, which is why people of average risk should start screening at the age of 45. People at higher risk may need to begin screening earlier or more frequently.

  • Are there other colorectal cancer screening options?

    In this website, we included the screening tools offered by the Institute for Family Health. 

  • I’m nervous about getting screened for colorectal cancer. What should I do?

    It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about getting screened for colorectal cancer. It can be helpful to think about the reasons why YOU want to get screened. Why is screening important to you? Do you think there are people in your life who may feel happy or relieved that you get screened? If so, who? Perhaps your partner, your children, your friends, or maybe your doctor. Or maybe you want to get screened just for you!

    Hear from others about their experiences getting screened and their reasons for wanting to get screened (Patient Stories; Screening options).

    It can also be helpful to talk with your doctor about any concerns you may have about getting screened. They can help answer any questions you may have and provide you with support.


Stool Based Tests

  • What happens if my stool based test results are abnormal?

    If your stool-based colorectal cancer screening test is abnormal, it means that there may be some signs of abnormal growths, such as polyps or cancer, in your colon or rectum. It is important to keep in mind that an abnormal test result does not necessarily mean that you have colorectal cancer. There can be other reasons for an abnormal result (e.g., inflammation or bleeding in the digestive tract).

    Your doctor will recommend that you undergo further tests, such as a colonoscopy, to investigate the cause of the abnormal test result. During a colonoscopy, any polyps or abnormal tissue may be removed. It's important to follow your doctor's recommendations and undergo further testing if your stool-based colorectal cancer screening test is abnormal. Early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer can improve outcomes and increase the chances of a full recovery.

  • I could not return my stool based test on time, now what?

    Contact your primary care doctor to get a new kit.

  • What happens after I complete a stool-based test?

    A lab will examine the sample and send the result to your doctor. Someone from your healthcare team will contact you, if you have an abnormal result on your test.

Colonoscopy

  • I’ve heard the prep can be unpleasant. Why is it important?

    It is very important that your colon is as clean as possible so that your doctor can have a clear view of your colon and rectum so that they can find any polyps or cancer. Not many people look forward to the colonoscopy prep, but even though it can be unpleasant, most people find it manageable. For one or two days before the colonoscopy, you will need to change your diet and drink a bowel cleansing liquid. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how and when to complete the prep and will determine which prep option is best for you. Remember to stay close to a bathroom while you are completing the prep. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely.

  • Will I feel any pain or discomfort during or after a colonoscopy?

    Most people are given sedation before they have a screening colonoscopy. Before you have your colonoscopy a doctor will give you some IV medication for sedation. Then your doctor will perform the colonoscopy. With sedation, most people feel no pain and have no memory of the procedure. Think of it as taking a short nap during your colonoscopy. Once your colonoscopy is finished, you’ll be taken to a recovery room. There you’ll be given a snack and have a little time to rest there while the sedation wears off. The most common complaint after a colonoscopy is feeling bloated.

  • Why do I need someone to pick me up from my colonoscopy appointment?

    After the procedure, the sedation may leave you feeling drowsy for several hours. For your safety, it is important that you have someone to pick you up from the colonoscopy appointment. They will ensure that you make it to your next location safely.

  • Will my colorectal cancer screening be covered by insurance?

    Most insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, cover colorectal cancer screenings starting at age 45. Consult your insurer about your coverage. *

  • Can I get screened if I don’t have insurance?

    If you don’t have insurance, there may be an out of pocket cost for FIT-DNA. You can still complete a FIT or colonoscopy free of charge.

  • What happens if I am diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer and I don’t have insurance?

    If you are diagnosed with cancer and do not have insurance, you may be eligible for emergency medicaid. Talk to your healthcare team about how to enroll in emergency medicaid.

    If you are diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer and do not have insurance, it can be a challenging and stressful situation. However, there are options available to help you receive the care you need.

    One option to consider is emergency Medicaid, which is a federal program that provides coverage for medical expenses for people with low incomes. Eligibility requirements vary by state, but you may qualify if you meet certain income and asset limits.

    It is essential to talk to your healthcare team as soon as possible about your situation and ask them for guidance on how to enroll in emergency Medicaid. They can help you with the application process and provide information on any other financial assistance programs that may be available.

    Additionally, some hospitals and treatment centers offer financial assistance programs or sliding-scale fees based on income. These programs can help reduce the cost of medical care and make it more affordable.

    It's crucial not to delay seeking medical attention if you have symptoms of colon or rectal cancer, even if you don't have insurance. Early detection and treatment can improve your chances of successful treatment and recover

    Reference: PDQ® Screening and Prevention Editorial Board. PDQ Colorectal Cancer Screening. Bethesda, MD: National Cancer Institute. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal/patient/colorectal-screening-pdq. Accessed <02/15/2022>. [PMID: 26389230]