Based on Your Answers, You are Considered for Colorectal Cancer

Colonoscopy or Non-Invasive Tests

Widespread Impact: Even for those at average risk have a 4-4.5% chance of colorectal cancer in their lifetime. Roughly 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will develop colorectal cancer, with increasing rates being seen in younger individuals.
Prevention Power: Regular screening can prevent up to 60-70% of colorectal cancers by detecting and removing precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.
Early Detection Saves Lives: When colorectal cancer is caught at an early stage, the 5-year survival rate exceeds 90%, significantly improving treatment outcomes.
National Guidelines Endorse Screening: The American Cancer Society and other leading organizations recommend starting screening at age 45 for average-risk individuals to ensure early detection and prevention.
Comprehensive Benefits: Screening not only identifies existing cancers but also prevents future cases by allowing for the immediate removal of abnormal growths during procedures like colonoscopy.

Feature	Colonoscopy	Cologuard
Method	Direct visualization using colonoscopy	Indirect detection via a stool-based test
Detection of Cancer	Detects nearly 100% of colorectal cancers	Detects 92% of colorectal cancers
Detection of Advanced Precancerous Lesions	High sensitivity; identifies and allows immediate removal of high-risk adenomas	Moderate sensitivity; detects only about 40% of high-risk lesions
Screening Interval	Every 10 years if normal	Every 3 years if negative
Follow-Up Requirement	No additional procedures needed if results are normal	Positive tests require a follow-up colonoscopy

Pro:

The Gold Standard: Detects nearly all cases of colorectal cancer
Prevents Colorectal Cancer: Detects and removes nearly all advanced precancerous lesions (APL) that are high risk of turning into colon cancer
10 year screening interval if the exam is normal
Covered: Most insurance carriers cover preventative screening 100%, including colonoscopy and associated costs.

Con:

Prep: Requires a laxative bowel prep and in some cases, modification of home medications.
Diet: Requires dietary changes, including a clear liquid diet in the pre-procedure period
Invasive: Utilizes sedation for comfort, which requires the day off of work and inability to operate heavy machinery.

Pro:

Non-invasive: completed at home without the need for a driver or day off of work
Convenience: Does not require a bowel prep or any changes to medications.
Best non-invasive option: Improved sensitivity compared to other stool or blood based tests
Covered: Most insurance carriers cover preventative screening 100%, including non-invasive tests.

Con:

Missed cancer detection: Although sensitivity is improved, it can still miss 1 of every 12 colorectal cancers
Missed advanced precancerous lesions: Does not accurately detect advanced precancerous lesions (APL) that are high risk of turning into colon cancer
More frequent screening interval
If positive, requires second test (colonoscopy) to complete the screening process