Start Colorectal Cancer Screening at age 45
If you’re 45 or older, it’s time to be thinking about colorectal cancer screening. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers among men and women, but it can be prevented with routine screening. Screenings help save lives by detecting cancer early. There are several screening test options; some you can even do from home. Cologuard at-home tests, which can be provided through LVHC, are accurate for three years.
Cologuard is not recommended for individuals at high risk for colorectal cancer including those with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or those with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. Your LVHC provider can discuss different colon cancer screening options with you and create a referral for a colonoscopy if recommended.
Cologuard is an easy-to-use screening test that requires no prep. You collect a sample at home and when complete, ship it to the Exact Sciences lab for testing with the included prepaid UPS shipping label. You can bring your completed test to any UPS shipping location or drop off at Long Valley Health Center, 50 Branscomb Road, on a Monday or Tuesday.
LVHC provides in-office and at-home colorectal cancer screenings! Long Valley Health Center patients can pick up a test or have one mailed to your home. Please call to request an order! 📞 707-984-6131
Colorectal Cancer Facts
Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. Sometimes it is called colon cancer, for short.
Your risk of getting colorectal cancer increases as you get older
Only 65% who should be getting screened are getting tested.
On-time screening tests can find polyps before they turn into cancer.
Tests can be done in-office or at home.
Colon Cancer Risk Factors
Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps.
A genetic syndrome
Lifestyle factors that may contribute to an increased risk of colorectal cancer include—
Lack of regular physical activity.
A diet low in fruit and vegetables.
A low-fiber and high-fat diet, or a diet high in processed meats.
Overweight and obesity.
Alcohol consumption.
Tobacco use.
Long Valley Health Center provides in-office colorectal cancer screenings and has at-home tests available. Please call to schedule an appointment or request an order! 📞 707-984-6131