Colon Cancer Screening Services
The United States Preventive Task Force (USPTF) recommends colon cancer screening begin at age 45 years old. However about 1/3 of the population in the United States does not get a colonoscopy. There are multiple reasons including lack of access to a facility, financial barriers, and fear of the procedure.
Did you know there are alternatives to a colonoscopy?
One of them is called an immunochemical Fecal Occult Blood Test or iFOBT. This test can be done at home and detect small amounts of blood in the colon. For people at low risk of colon cancer a colonoscopy is usually done every 10 years however as an alternative the iFOBT can be done yearly. This does involve collecting a small stool sample and applying it to the collection kit (see instructions below).
A screening test like the iFOBT looks for something when a person has no symptoms. This means if you do have a symptoms it is better to get a colonoscopy to diagnose and treat the problem. A colonoscopy is also better for those with risk factors including diabetes type 2, smoking, and alcohol use.
The risk of colon cancer increases with age but you can also reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer by:
- Increasing physical activity.
- Keeping a healthy weight.
- Eating a diet low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limiting alcohol consumption.
- Avoiding tobacco.
Clear Health Medical is now offering the iFOBT test to its members for $5.00. If you are a member please let us know if you would like a kit to take home with you.
Checkout the easy and exciting instructions below!
