Types of Colorectal Cancer Screenings

Different Colorectal Cancer Screenings

Over 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed each year. Unfortunately, colorectal cancer doesn’t tend to show any signs or symptoms during its early stages, making it essential for adults to get screened regularly.

When it comes to effectively treating colorectal cancer, early detection is key. Here’s what you should know about the various ways you can stay on top of your health with these cancer screenings.

Stool Screenings

One of the ways that your healthcare team can check for signs of colorectal cancer is with various stool tests. Three different types of stool screenings include:

• Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
• FIT-DNA test
• Guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT)

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a procedure where an endoscope— a thin, flexible camera—is inserted into the anus and fed into the rectum and lower third of the colon. During this screening process, your doctor is able to check for polyps, growths, and other abnormalities.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is a procedure where a colonoscope—a flexible tube with a light and camera at the end—is inserted into the anus and your surgeon is able to examine the inside of the rectum and colon during this procedure. If any polyps or growth are found, your surgical care team is able to remove them for biopsy.

Healthy people, age 45 and older, with an average risk for colon cancer, can schedule a colonoscopy without the inconvenience of an initial office visit. Fill out the online pre-registration form and one of our nurses will contact you within two business days. Explore our online cancer screening guideline to learn how often you should get screened for colon and other cancers.

Gastroenterology in Jackson Hole

St. John’s Health Gastroenterology specializes in diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal disorders. Our GI team offers endoscopic services working closely with our Surgical Specialists for comprehensive digestive tract care.

Learn more about Gastroenterology at St. John's Health or call 307.739.7690 to schedule an appointment.