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Your colorectal cancer screening, your way

Regular colorectal cancer screenings could save your life—because early detection is key. The screening options have come a long way over the years, so it doesn’t need to be a source of dread. Not only is getting your screening easier and faster than ever before, but you have more options now too. Your health is in your hands.

Baylor Scott & White Health recommends regular colorectal screenings starting at age 45. Learn more about your options and get scheduled today, so you can have peace of mind about your health.

Screening options

Here are three of the most common screening options.

 

Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)

What is required:

  • Small stool sample
  • Mailed to a lab

Test can be done at home and is required once a year.

FIT-DNA

What is required:

  • Full bowel movement
  • Mailed to a lab

Test can be done at home and is required every three years.

Colonoscopy

About:

  • Gold standard of screenings
  • Requires anesthesia

Test is recommended every 10 years unless your provider suggests a different frequency based on test results or family history.

Please note: If blood is detected in the stool in FIT or FIT- DNA screenings, a colonoscopy is required.

Ready to take your next step in living well?

Let’s get you scheduled for your colorectal screening. Please fill out all the information below and your primary care provider will be in touch to help you get scheduled for the screening of your choice.

If yes to at least one of the three questions above, speak to your doctor about which test is right for you. You can select “Need assistance” below.

Frequently asked questions

  • What’s the difference between FIT, FIT-DNA and colonoscopy?

    Fecal immunochemical test (FIT): a simple stool sample you can collect from the comfort and privacy of your home. You return the test kit in the mail to the lab where the stool sample is checked for the presence of blood. If you receive a positive result, a colonoscopy is required. FIT tests should be completed yearly.

    FIT-DNA: an extensive stool sample test you can collect from the comfort and privacy of your home. This test combines the FIT with a test that detects altered DNA in the stool. For this test, you collect an entire bowel movement and send to the lab, where it’s checked for the presence of blood. If you receive a positive result, a colonoscopy is required. FIT-DNA tests should be completed every three years.

    Colonoscopy: the gold standard of colorectal cancer screening tests. If you select this option, a member of the care team will help coordinate the screening with a gastroenterologist. Colonoscopies should be performed every 10 years unless more frequent screening based on your risk factors.

  • How do I know which screening is right for me?

    If you have a family history of colon cancer, a history of polyps from a previous screening, certain genetic syndromes or certain medical conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, your doctor will likely recommend a colonoscopy.

    However, if you are at average risk and aren’t sure which option is right for you, your doctor can help you weigh the options and consider your individual risk factors and preferences.

  • How much does colorectal cancer screening cost?

    Colorectal cancer screenings are covered by most insurance providers. Check with your provider for further information.