Types of Tests

Why Get Tested?
Testing results in lower death rates from colon cancer. If you are over 50 or have a family history of polyps or cancer of the colon and/or rectum, you should be tested now.

REMEMBER! Don't wait for symptoms. Testing is important because you could have colon cancer without having symptoms.

The Tests at a Glance

The two main types of screening tests for colon cancer are fecal occult blood test (FOBT)and colonoscopy. Discuss the tests with your doctor and together decide which test is right for you based on your personal risk and any symptoms you might be experiencing. 

Fecal Occult Blood Test

What?		How?
This simple test finds blood in your stool that you cannot see. The blood might be from polyps or cancer.		For the test, you will collect samples at home from three bowel movements in a row and take the samples to a lab for testing.

 

Colonoscopy

What?		How?
This test lets a doctor look at the lining of the rectum and the colon and remove polyps.		For the test, you will go to a day clinic where you get a sedative and a doctor uses a long, thin tube with a small camera to look at your entire colon.

NEXT: How Often

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