Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when found early. The key? Getting screened. Today, we have several effective screening options available to our Community Care patients, and the right one for you starts with a conversation with your primary care provider. Your provider will evaluate your personal health history, risk factors, and preferences to recommend the screening method that best suits you.
Most adults at average risk should begin routine colorectal cancer screening at age 45. For individuals with certain risk factors—such as a family history of colon cancer or prior polyps—screening may begin earlier or occur more frequently.
Below are three common screening options available to our patients.
Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard
Colonoscopy is widely considered the gold standard for detecting and preventing colorectal cancer. Patients must follow the recommended prep instructions before the procedure, including a low-fiber diet, clear liquids, and either a laxative or a prescription to ensure the colon is completely clean. During this 30–60 minute procedure, a specialist examines the entire colon using a thin, flexible camera. The camera at the tip of the scope allows the doctor to carefully examine the colon while the patient is under sedation. If polyps (small growths that can become cancerous) are found, they can often be removed during the same procedure—preventing cancer before it starts. After the procedure, patients spend about 1–2 hours in the recovery area while the sedation wears off. Most people resume normal activities the following day.
Colonoscopies at CCP are performed by our specialists at Capital Region Gastroenterology (which treats adults 21 years and older) and Community Care General Surgery (which treats adults 18 years and older). No matter who you see, you can trust that you’re receiving expert, compassionate care every step of the way.
Low-risk patients can have their colonoscopy performed at Community Care’s Interventional and Endoscopy Suite, a QUADA recognized (Global accreditation authority) facility, located at Wellness Way in Latham, NY. This private, outpatient setting offers several advantages, including:
- Ample, free parking
- Comfortable pre- and post-procedure areas
- Easy navigation for patients and families
- A non-hospital setting that often results in lower copays and overall costs
- Take a virtual tour of the QUAD here
Patients who require a higher level of sedation or have higher risk factors may have their procedure performed at Samaritan Hospital or St. Peter’s Hospital.
CT Colonography
CT colonography—sometimes called a virtual colonoscopy—is a minimally invasive imaging test that uses X-Ray technology and advanced 3D software to examine the colon and rectum. The test typically takes only 10–20 minutes and does not require sedation. During the procedure, a small tube is inserted a short distance into the rectum to gently inflate the colon with air. Images are then captured using a CT scanner to detect polyps, ulcers, or potential cancers.
Like a traditional colonoscopy, CT colonography requires bowel preparation beforehand to ensure clear images. For many patients, it is repeated every five years as part of routine screening.
One important distinction: CT colonography is strictly a diagnostic test. If polyps or abnormalities are detected, a traditional colonoscopy is still required to remove them.
At Community Care, CT colonography is performed by ImageCare Latham, a full-service imaging provider with more than 35 years of experience serving the Capital Region. All studies are interpreted by subspecialized radiologists, and our facility is accredited by the American College of Radiology. Patients benefit from modern imaging technology, comfortable outpatient settings, and convenient locations with free parking.
Cologuard: At-Home Screening
For patients who prefer a noninvasive screening option, Cologuard offers an at-home test that screens for colorectal cancer. Cologuard is a prescription stool-based DNA test designed for adults 45 and older who are at average risk. The test analyzes a full bowel movement for traces of blood and specific DNA markers associated with colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps.
Some of the advantages include:
- Completed privately at home
- No bowel preparation required
- No dietary restrictions
- No sedation or procedure needed
The test is typically repeated every 3 years and has a cancer detection sensitivity of about 92%.
However, it does have limitations. Cologuard is not recommended for individuals with higher-risk conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or a strong family history of colorectal cancer. It is also less effective than colonoscopy at identifying precancerous polyps. Results are usually available within 8–10 days. A positive result does not mean cancer is present, but it does mean a diagnostic colonoscopy is needed to determine the cause of the findings.
It All Starts with Your Primary Care Provider
With several screening options available, deciding which one is right for you can feel overwhelming. That’s where your primary care provider comes in.
Your provider will consider your age, health history, family history, and personal preferences to recommend the most appropriate screening method. The most important step is simply getting the conversation started.
If you are 45 or older—or if you have risk factors for colorectal cancer—talk with your primary care provider about screening. Early detection doesn’t just find cancer sooner. In many cases, it prevents it altogether.
And that’s a powerful reason to schedule that conversation.