Different Methods of Colon Cancer Screening

The Colorectal Cancer Alliance estimates 152,810 people in the U.S. will receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis in 2024. For the best prognosis, obtaining a diagnosis as early as possible is important. That's why Waco Gastroenterology Associates, serving Waco, TX, and the nearby region, stresses the importance of a colon cancer screening, and several options are available. The right test can depend on your age and risk factors. The staff includes eight gastroenterologists as well as other physicians.

Fecal Occult Blood Test

This colon cancer screening involves collecting a stool sample. We'll send you home with a kit to return to the lab, and the results will be sent to our Waco, TX, office.

The sample goes to the lab for a technician to evaluate it for blood that can't be seen with the naked eye. We recommend this as a routine test for those who don't have symptoms of colorectal cancer. We'd also like to note this is a test for those at average risk.

DNA Stool Test

This test requires you to provide a stool sample and send it to the lab. A technician will look for occult blood and changes in DNA. Once complete, the lab will send us the results. 

We recommend this test for people who don't have any signs of colorectal cancer and are at average risk. 

Sigmoidoscopy

A sigmoidoscopy is a test to check the rectum and large intestine. It consists of using a thin, flexible tube inserted into the rectum. At the end of the tube is a tiny camera with a light.

During the test, a Waco Gastroenterology Associates physician will gently insert the tube and guide it into the lower portion of the intestines. The camera will display results on a screen for the practitioner to monitor the results in real time. Through this test, the doctor in Waco, TX, can find polyps and other abnormalities that could signify cancer. The physician may collect a sample of tissue during this evaluation. 

This can be a routine test or for those with symptoms. It's often recommended for those with a high risk. 

Colonoscopy

For a colonoscopy, our doctor will examine the rectum and colon in real time, though a recording may be taken to look for swelling, polyps, and other signs of cancer. It consists of our physician inserting a flexible tube with a tiny camera. Tissue samples may be collected.

This is performed routinely on those with an average risk and more frequently on those with a higher risk. It can be used if you're symptomatic.

Routine colon cancer screening at Waco Gastroenterology Associates, serving Waco, TX, and the surrounding area, can detect cancer when it's most treatable. Call (254) 537-0911 today to learn more and make an appointment.