Early detection is our priority.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early, so regular screening is critical to protecting your health. When caught early, colorectal cancer has a 90% survival rate.
That's why the Hartford HealthCare Digestive Health Institute offers a range of screening options to fit your needs and lifestyle. Together, we can choose the best option for you to take a crucial step toward preventing colorectal cancer.
Do you need a colorectal cancer screening?
Guidelines recommend starting colorectal cancer screening at age 45 for those at average risk.
But some factors may increase your risk of colorectal cancer, including:
- Personal history of colon cancer, polyps or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Family history of colon cancer or polyps.
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), a hereditary condition that creates hundreds of polyps in the colon and rectum.
- Obesity.
- Smoking.
- Heavy alcohol use.
Even if you're at average risk and your first screening is normal, routine colorectal cancer screenings are still essential for ongoing protection. The recommended schedule depends on the type of screening. If you're at increased risk, your doctor will work with you to create a personalized screening plan.
A colorectal cancer screening is more than a colonoscopy.
A colonoscopy is the best way to detect, and the only way to prevent colorectal cancer. By finding and removing polyps before they become cancerous, a colonoscopy offers unparalleled protection. But we know there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach.
The Hartford HealthCare Digestive Health Institute offers a range of other colorectal cancer screening options, including:
- Immunochemical Test (FIT)*: Checks a stool sample for blood, which can signal an underlying issue, but needs follow-up to determine if the cause is cancer.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera examines the rectum and lower colon. This section is limited, so it's less comprehensive than a colonoscopy.
- CT Colonography: A CT scan of the rectum and colon has lower risk of perforation than a colonoscopy, but it requires prep. If anything is unclear, a colonoscopy may still be needed.
- Cologuard*: Tests stool for DNA mutations linked to colorectal cancer. Although it does not detect non-cancerous polyps, it can detect cancer and requires no prep.
*If your screening comes back positive for these tests, you will need to follow-up with a colonoscopy.
Here's how to get screened.
Whether you need a colonoscopy or want to explore other options, we'll start by listening to your needs.
Together, we will choose the best screening method to gather essential information and personalize your care.
When it comes to preventing colorectal cancer, the best screening is the one you complete. Let's take this crucial first step to protecting your health starting today.
Your health can't wait—schedule your colorectal cancer screening today.
Complete our colorectal cancer screening form below to schedule an appointment.
You will hear back from our team within 2 business days.
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