Many people hesitate to schedule a colonoscopy. The preparation, sedation, and time involved can make it easy to put off. But while there are tests for colon cancer without a colonoscopy, nothing compares to the accuracy of one.
Some less invasive options, like stool tests or imaging, can offer useful information. But they’re not substitutes for a full examination with a colonoscopy. If results are abnormal, a colonoscopy is still required for confirmation and treatment.
Here’s what you should know about the available tests, why colonoscopy remains the gold standard, and how early detection can help prevent colon cancer altogether.
The colon is the final part of the digestive system, where water is absorbed and stool is formed before it leaves the body.
Cancer can occur in any part of the colon, and its location can influence symptoms and treatment. The medical term colorectal cancer is often used because the colon and rectum are directly connected.
Colon cancer often starts as small growths called polyps. Not all polyps turn into cancer, but some can develop into cancer over time if they are not found and removed. Detecting these growths early is one of the most effective ways to prevent colon cancer.
Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in both men and women, and it is also one of the most preventable. Because it usually develops slowly, screening tests can identify cancer in its earliest stages. It can also prevent it altogether by finding and removing polyps.
For most adults, experts recommend beginning screening at age 45, or earlier if there is a family history or other risk factors.
There are tests for colon cancer without a colonoscopy. These tests are less invasive and can often be done at home or with imaging. However, if a positive result is found, a colonoscopy is still required for confirmation and treatment, which can often end up costing you thousands.
These tests look for hidden blood or DNA changes in stool:
Blood tests for colon cancer are becoming more common as a screening tool. They are designed to detect cell-free DNA, which may be present in your blood if you have colon cancer. It’s usually done every three years if you have a normal result.
CT colonography, or virtual colonoscopy, uses CT scan imaging to produce detailed pictures of the colon. It requires the same bowel preparation as a colonoscopy but does not involve the use of a colonoscope. It is recommended every five years.
Other options provide valuable ways to screen for people who can’t have a colonoscopy. Unfortunately, false negatives are common with them. That means that you may actually have cancer when the test says you don’t. And these tests miss many more polyps that can become cancer compared to a colonoscopy.
That’s why colonoscopy remains the best way to diagnose colon cancer. It evaluates the entire colon and rectum in a single procedure. During the test, polyps can be removed immediately, preventing them from progressing into cancer.
If results are normal, colonoscopy may not need to be repeated for ten years.
Colonoscopy does require bowel preparation, sedation, and a short recovery period. But its ability to both detect and prevent cancer makes it the gold standard in colon cancer screening.
Colon cancer is common but highly preventable.
Screening is one of the most powerful ways to protect long-term digestive health.
For most people, colon cancer screening begins at age 45. Earlier testing may be advised if you have risk factors such as a strong family history or certain genetic conditions.
Tests for colon cancer without a colonoscopy are valuable tools in some cases. But colonoscopy remains the most effective method because it allows for a complete examination and removal of polyps in one step.
Are you 45 or older? Don’t delay any longer – schedule an appointment today!
If you have not registered for the new gPortal please select the Register/Learn More button for instructions on registering.
The Patient Portal messages are only monitored during regular business hours. Please allow 24-72 hours to be contacted by a staff member.
To pay your bill online, please choose the correct option below: select the “Clinic Locations” button if you’re paying your Physician or Clinic Statement, or select the “ASC Locations” button if you’re paying your Procedure Statement at one of our Ambulatory Surgical Centers.
Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio (GCSA) is a Professional Association owned by the physicians that practice within it. GCSA’s physicians are directly involved in the management of patient services. GCSA physicians have indirect ownership interest in our Histology/Pathology, Anesthesia, Infusion and Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASC).
