Colon cancer is the third most common form of cancer among men and women. But the good news is that colon cancer is largely preventable with regular colorectal screenings. If you’re over 45, talk to your Atlantic Health System physician about the right colorectal screening for you. Stay ahead of the game!
Atlantic Health System and the New York Jets have teamed up to encourage colon cancer screenings. Watch an important message on colorectal cancer awareness from retired New York Jet, Wayne Chrebet.
You Have Choices When It Comes to Colorectal Screenings
Types of Screening Tests
Colonoscopy (Visual Exam)
How does it work?
Uses a scope to look for and remove abnormal growths in the colon and rectum
How often?
Every 10 years
Is it noninvasive?
No
Prep required?
Full bowel prep including fasting and laxatives
Time it takes?
1-2 days for bowel prep and procedure
Covered?
Most insurances cover colonoscopies. Call to ask.
Multitarget Stool DNA Test (Cologuard®)
How does it work?
Finds abnormal DNA and blood in the stool sample
How often?
Every 3 years
Is it noninvasive?
Yes, used at home
Prep required?
No
Time it takes?
The time it takes to collect a sample
Covered?
Most insurances cover colonoscopies. Call to ask.
FIT or FOBT (Fecal Immunochemical Test or Fecal Occult Blood Test)
How does it work?
Detects blood in the stool sample
How often?
Once a year
Is it noninvasive?
Yes, used at home
Prep required?
No
Time it takes?
The time it takes to collect a sample
Covered?
Most insurances cover colonoscopies. Call to ask.
Community Conversation: Colorectal Cancer
Community Conversation, Matthew A. Grossman, MD
Colorectal Screening Options
Are you over 45 and hesitant about scheduling a colonoscopy? Did you know there are now several types of screenings that you should discuss with your primary care provider? Matthew A Grossman, MD discusses the importance of getting a screening and the latest technology to support this important procedure.
