Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is the most commonly used screening test for colon cancer and is the “preferred” test of the American College of Gastroenterology.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Find out how a sigmoidoscopy is used to look for early signs of colon cancer and learn what happens during the procedure.
Guaiac Fecal Occult Blood Test
The guaiac fecal occult blood test checks for blood traces in the stool that may indicate the presence of colon polyps or colorectal cancer. Learn about the test and what to expect.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
The Fecal Immunochemical Test checks for blood proteins in a stool sample that might indicate colorectal cancer. Learn about the test and what to expect.
Stool DNA Test
This is another stool sample test that checks for gene changes in colorectal cancer cells or polyps that might indicate colorectal cancer. Learn about the test and what to expect.
Barium Enema Screening for Colon Cancer
A barium enema is infrequently used with the increasing use of endoscopy and CT to screen for colon cancer. Learn about the procedure and what to expect during and after the test.
CT Colonography (virtual colonoscopy)
Computer tomographic colonography uses computer images to construct images of the inside of the colon. Further studies are needed to evaluate its effectiveness. It is also referred to as a Virtual Colonoscopy.
Proctoscopy for Rectal Cancer
With a proctoscopy, your doctor can monitor the growth of rectal polyps or check for a return of rectal cancer in people who have already had surgery to treat their cancer.