Test of colon cancer in Vero Beach

Test for colon cancer without colonoscopy

Do you need to take a test for colon cancer in Vero Beach? 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 Vero Beach. 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.

When you choose to get a stool-based test, you will have to purchase the test that your doctor assigns you and take the amount of deposition samples that the test indicates. Then you’ll have to send them to the doctor or to a lab for results. If you screen positive, you’ll need a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis and remove possible polyps.

If you choose a visual or X-ray test, you’ll have to prepare just like you would for a colonoscopy. In the hospital, they will insert a small tube in your colon to pump in air (for CT colonoscopy) or barium and air (for barium enema). If the test detects a polyp, you need to get a colonoscopy to remove it.

If you can’t afford the cost or the downtime of colonoscopy, or if you don’t want to go through the preparation for this procedure, talk to your colorectal surgeon. Your physician will examine factors such as age, health problems and family history to determine which method will work best 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