Early Detection Saves $$$
Get Screened Early for Colon Cancer
Did You Know?
Colorectal cancer treatment is the second highest cost of any cancer in the United States.* Individuals who undergo treatment for a colon cancer diagnosis will reach their maximum out-of-pocket during the periods when they are receiving ongoing diagnostics tests, surgeries, and treatment (chemo, radiation, and drug therapies). Not including costs for gas, parking, and other expenses that come with someone having to utilize acute medical services on an ongoing basis, out-of-pocket medical costs can add up to at minimum $7,350.
In addition to the monetary costs, the time taken off from work and away from family and loved ones is simply a cost that can't be put into a dollar amount. Some cancer survivors are not able to return to their original jobs after treatment due to inability to perform some previous tasks. Changing careers due to cancer, or not working at all, plays a major role in affecting one's financial and mental wellness.
Getting a preventive colonoscopy screening is covered at 100% with no out-of-pocket costs to the member. Early detection can save you thousands of dollars, time, and stress.
What is Colon Cancer?
Colorectal cancer happens when cells that are not normal grow in your colon or rectum. Most people just call it "colon cancer."
These cancers usually begin as polyps. Polyps are growths attached to the inside of the colon or rectum. Colon polyps are common. Most of them don't turn into cancer. Polyps are found during some screening tests. And polyps found during a colonoscopy usually can be removed at the same time.
Should I Get Screened?
The CDC recommends to begin regular screening at age 45. However, you should talk to your doctor about possibly being screened earlier if any of the below risk factors apply to you.
RISK FACTORS
- Age 50yr - 75yr
- African Americans have a higher risk than other races
- Family history of colon cancer
- Personal history of colon cancer, other cancers, Crohn's disease, or colitis
- Smokers
- Sedentary, non-active
Colon Cancer Screening Options
Take the time to research and decide which option is best for you. If you are at a higher risk, consult with your doctor about the options for earlier testing.
At-Home Stool Test
- You do the FIT or the gFOBT test every year. Or you do the FIT-DNA test every 1 to 3 years.
- It’s done at home.
- You take samples of your stool. You may find out your results right away. Or you may need to mail the sample to a lab or your doctor’s office to get the results.
- If your test shows a positive result (blood or other signs of cancer are found), you will need to have a colonoscopy.
Colonoscopy
- You have one of the following procedures:
- A colonoscopy every 10 years. It will likely be done more often if you have things that increase your risk for colorectal cancer or if polyps are found.
- A sigmoidoscopy every 5 years, or every 10 years with the FIT stool test every year.
- A CT colonography every 5 years.
- These procedures are done in a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital.
- You use laxatives to clean out your bowels.
- With colonoscopy, you are given drugs to relax. You may not remember the test at all.
