Up to 40% of people who should get a test for colon cancer aren’t doing so.
That’s one of the reasons why some doctors are encouraged by Cologuard, a new at-home test for colon cancer.
Testing yourself for colon cancer is now easier and more accurate. Cologuard is a do-it-yourself kit that allows you to collect your stool sample in the privacy of your home.
Once your doctor orders the test, a kit is shipped to your home. You collect a stool sample and mail it to a lab in a prepaid, pre-addressed box. The lab will then send results to your doctor within 2 weeks.
It determines if there’s blood in your stool -- a common sign of colon cancer or of precancerous polyps (abnormal growths of tissue). The lab workers will also look for DNA cell changes linked to cancer.
Colon cancer is preventable if pre-cancerous polyps are found and removed.
--------------------------------------------
Post a Comment