Colorectal Cancer Screening: Stool-Based Tests

Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer with Cologuard®

A colorectal cancer screening can help you catch cancer earlier. Get screened with a stool-based test called Cologuard. This at-home screening method is trusted and easy to do.

Cologuard may be a good option for you if you do not have:

  • Symptoms of colorectal cancer, such as blood in your stool, abdominal pain, changes in your bowel habits or unplanned weight loss
  • A family history of a parent or sibling having colon polyps or colorectal cancer
  • A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, colon polyps or colorectal cancer

Please complete the form below if you:

  • Need to update your address
  • Have questions and would like our team to call you
  • Recently got screened for colorectal cancer
  • Have symptoms of colorectal cancer
  • Have a family history of colorectal cancer
  • Do not want to receive a test kit or have a colonoscopy scheduled

Understanding Your Test Results

A normal result means that no signs of colorectal cancer were found. You will receive a letter notifying you if your results are normal. Your letter will also include details about getting screened in the future.

A positive or abnormal result means that the test found possible signs of cancer. You will be contacted if you have a positive or abnormal result to schedule a colonoscopy. During this procedure, a provider may remove growth on the inner lining of the colon, called polyps, or take a sample of tissue for testing.


Why Colorectal Cancer Screenings are Important

Colorectal cancer screenings are an effective way to prevent and identify cancer early. When colorectal cancer is found at an early stage, 9 out of 10 people have no evidence of cancer 5 years later. Regular colorectal cancer screenings are recommended starting at age 45 until age 75, or as long as you are in good health.


Screening Costs

Don’t let concerns about money keep you from getting screened for colorectal cancer. Stool-based tests are covered by most insurances.

Call (877) 701-0779 to learn about costs, financial assistance programs and payment plan options.

Cologuard FAQs

What is a Cologuard test?

This test screens for cancer by checking the stool for certain DNA markers and blood. 

How often should I do the Cologuard test?

This test should be completed every three years. 

When will I receive a Cologuard test?

You will receive a Cologuard test in the coming weeks. The test will be sent to the home address listed in your patient records.

How do I do a Cologuard test?

You will receive the test and instructions in the mail. Complete the test within 7 days. Collect your sample and mail it back the same day or the next day using the UPS® prepaid shipping label and the box the test arrived in.

How is the sample collected?

Visit this site for step-by-step instructions on how to collect the sample. Samples must be mailed back within a day of collection.

Steps include:

  • Checking the kit
  • Preparing to collect the sample
  • Collecting the sample
  • Scraping the sample
  • Preparing the container for returning the sample
  • Labeling and packing the sample
  • Shipping the test
 

How do I opt-out of communications from Cologuard?

Cologuard may contact you through text messages to provide status updates on when you will receive your test and to remind you to complete and return the test. To opt-out of text messages, reply STOP or call the following number. If you’d like to stop all communications from Cologuard, call (844) 870-8870 and press #1. 

Colorectal Cancer FAQs

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. Cancer occurs when cells divide and grow uncontrollably.

How common is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in men and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in women, according to the American Cancer Society.

One in 23 men and one in 25 women will develop colorectal cancer during their lifetime. The risk of developing colorectal cancer varies depending on personal risk factors. 

 

What are common risk factors?

Risk factors include:

  • Age. The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases after age 45.
  • Family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps
  • Past diagnosis of colorectal cancer
  • History of inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
  • Genetic syndromes like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome

Lifestyle risk factors include:

  • Diet
  • Heavy alcohol intake and tobacco use
  • Lack of regular physical activity
  • Obesity
  • Type 2 diabetes
 

Who should get a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy may be right for you if you have:

  • A history of colorectal cancer, colon polyps or inflammatory bowel disease
  • A parent or sibling with a history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps
  • Symptoms of colorectal cancer, including abdominal pain, blood in your stool, changes in your bowel habits or unplanned weight loss
 

What is the cost of a stool-based test?

There is no cost to get the test. Once it is completed and returned, you may receive a bill. In most cases, testing costs are paid for by your insurance. 

How do I get ready for a stool-based test?

There is no prep needed and you can eat and drink as normal. You may want to delay your test if you have unusual diarrhea, your period or blood in your stool.

How do I confirm my address on My Sanford Chart?

Log into My Sanford Chart. In the menu, select Personal Information under Account Settings. This will display your contact information, including your address and phone number. If you have more than one home or will be staying somewhere besides your primary address, you can add a temporary address.