Test of colon cancer in Boca Raton

Test for colon cancer without colonoscopy

Do you need to take a test for colon cancer in Boca Raton? At the Institute of Health & Wellness we offer several screening options to detect colorectal cancer.

The most common option for colon cancer screening is colonoscopy. This process consists in inserting a flexible tube, called colonoscope, through the rectum and colon to examine for polyps. If a polyp or another abnormality is found, it can be removed right away with a small wire and sent for studying.

Colonoscopy is usually a very effective procedure, especially when it’s performed in the initial stages of colorectal cancer. However, many people are deterred from taking it by the rigorous preparation, the invasiveness of the procedure or the cost that isn’t always covered by insurance.

Fortunately for those who are afraid to take a colonoscopy, there are other ways to test for colon cancer in Boca Raton. Some alternatives to colonoscopy are:

• Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
• Double-contrast barium enema
• Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)
• Stool DNA (Cologuard)
• CT colonoscopy

All these tests have different characteristics in terms of type of test, invasiveness, preparation, cost and insurance coverage. What they have in common is that they are less invasive and less costly than colonoscopy, while requiring no downtime.

Stool-based tests, like FIT, FOBT and stool DNA, don’t require any special preparation, although your physician may recommend you to limit or remove some foods. They are cheap or mid-range, and insurances usually cover them. You should take them yearly or every three years, depending on the specific test.

Double-contrast barium enema and CT colonoscopy are performed with X-rays, meaning you have to undergo special preparation to empty your colon, like with a regular colonoscopy. The difference is that they are less expensive and less invasive than colonoscopy, although many insurances might not cover them.

As a final note, keep in mind that colonoscopy is still the gold standard for colorectal cancer detection. It’s the most accurate way to detect polyps, given that the optical device in the colonoscope can detect abnormalities in a much more precise way than stool samples or X-ray images.

If you happen to test positive for any of these tests, your doctor will recommend then getting a colonoscopy to either confirm the diagnosis or to remove any polyps detected in an X-ray scan.

In the end, the final decision for which test for colon cancer you’ll take will depend on factors like economy, age and health conditions. You should discuss the possibilities with your colorectal surgeon to find the one that is better for you.

Contact the Institute of Health & Wellness for more information on a test for colon cancer in Boca Raton. Request an appointment by phone at 772-539-9556