Screenings can find changes or precancerous cells, even before you have any symptoms.
And they’re often available at little or no cost to you.
Colorectal Cancer: Be smart and protect yourself.
Even if you don’t have symptoms or family history of colorectal cancer — if you’re age 50 or older, it’s time to schedule a screening.
You may have an increased risk of colorectal cancer if you smoke cigarettes, drink more than three alcoholic drinks a day, or are obese.
Colorectal cancer screenings
These are general guidelines. Talk to your health care provider to see what's best for you.
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Fecal occult blood tests (FOBT)
Doctors test for blood in a sample of your stool.
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Cologuard® FIT
Doctors look at a large sample of your stool for any changes in the DNA makeup.
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Flexible sigmoidoscopy
You are sedated for this outpatient procedure in which doctors use a thin, flexible tube to view the rectum for polyps and/or abnormal tissue.
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Colonoscopy
You are sedated for this outpatient procedure, in which doctors use a thin, flexible tube to view the colon for polyps and/or abnormal tissue.
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CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)
Doctors search for abnormal cells in the colon with X-rays and computer imaging.
Questions about costs and coverage?
Call the number on the back of your member ID card. That number is plan specific and the quickest path to correct answers.
Preparing for your colonoscopy
Having a colonoscopy may not be your favorite way to spend a Tuesday, but there are things you can do to make the experience a little easier on yourself.*
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Use the preparation instructions provided by your heath care provider.
It may take time for the pharmacy to get the prep ordered. Make sure to get the prep prescription filled as soon as you can.
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Not all colonoscopy preparations are the same.
Your doctor will provide a prescription for the preparation. Although preparation isn't always the same, you'll likely be taking the medication at regular intervals throughout the day.
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Start preparing the day before.
Your doctor will provide you with steps to take the day before your colonoscopy. The instructions likely include fasting, drinking a lot of water and beginning to take the prescribed preparation.
* These are general guidelines. Talk to your health care provider and follow their recommendations.
