Fifty-four percent of colorectal cancer cases and 55% of deaths have the potential to be prevented with healthy lifestyle choices and early screening and detection.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of death from cancer. It’s estimated that about 55% of colorectal cases and deaths could be attributed to modifiable risk factors, such as:
- Diets high in red and processed meat and low in fruit, vegetables, fiber, and calcium
- Not being physically active
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol
There are screening test options for people with an average risk of developing colorectal cancer. People should to talk with their doctor about which type of screening test is best for them.
Stool-based tests (called FIT, gFOBT, and DNA-FIT) involve collecting small samples of stool at home using a kit ordered by their doctor and sending the sample where the kit instructs.
- FIT and gFOBT tests check samples for hidden blood, which may be a sign of polyps or cancer in the colon or rectum. These tests need to be done every year. If blood is found in a person’s stool, they will need a colonoscopy.
- DNA-FIT (Cologuard) tests check for hidden blood and for certain abnormal sections of DNA from polyps or cancer cells. This test needs to be done every 3 years. If blood or DNA changes are found in a person’s stool, they will need a colonoscopy.
Visual exams are done during a colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, or a sigmoidoscopy. These procedures take place in a medical facility using instruments or technology that allow the doctor to see the inside of the colon and rectum. Using these screening tools, the doctor can remove polyps and send them for testing. One benefit is that it can allow for directly seeing the tissue of the colon and removing polyps before they become cancerous.
The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45 and continue every 10 years through age 75. For people ages 76 through 85, the decision to be screened should be based on a person’s preferences, life expectancy, overall health, and prior screening history. People over age 85 should no longer get colorectal cancer screening.
The Affordable Care Act requires private health insurance plans that started after 2010 and Medicare to cover the costs of colorectal screening tests, meaning people shouldn’t have to pay any copays or deductibles. Other regulations call for a colonoscopy after a positive FOBT/FIT test to be covered by insurance.
If you have questions about payment by your insurance, speak to your healthcare provider. If you have more questions about payment, call the provider services number on the back of your insurance card.