Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.—and it’s significantly more common in our region than in other parts of the country.
Luckily, colorectal cancer is detectable, preventable, and usually treatable—if you get screened. Colorectal cancer often has no symptoms, so it is especially important that you get checked (screened) at the right time even if you feel perfectly healthy.
If you’re Alaska-Native and over age 40, or non-Native and over 45, or have a family history of colorectal cancer, let’s make sure you are up-to-date with your colorectal screening.
The good news is that YKHC offers multiple options, including some that you can do in the privacy of your own home and at a time that is right for you.
iFOB Test (If you are 40 and over, this is an easy test to do anywhere in the YK Delta!)
- Eligible patients can complete an immunological fecal occult blood test (iFOB, also called a FIT test), which requires a small stool (poop) sample that can be collected at home or in your clinic’s bathroom. The test looks for blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer.
- A negative or normal result means you are good for one year. A positive or abnormal result means you need further testing.
Cologuard (If you are 45 and over, this is an easy test for you to do when in Bethel)
- Cologuard is also an at-home or at the clinic stool test – but it requires a larger sample and checks for both blood and cancer DNA in your stool.
- You get a box and instructions to collect your sample. It needs to be collected and shipped to the lab as soon as possible—ideally the same day. You’ll hear back in three weeks.
- A negative or normal result means you can wait three years to test again. A positive or abnormal result means you need further testing.
Colonoscopy
- A colonoscopy allows the doctor to look inside your colon to check for small growths or tumors. If they find any, they can remove them, even before they turn into cancer.
- You’ll need to schedule it with your provider and follow all the prep instructions carefully to clean out your colon. You will hear back about results in about a month.
- A negative or normal result mean you are good for as long as ten years. A positive or abnormal result means your doctor will discuss options for additional treatment and/or more frequent testing.
If you’re wondering which option is the best for you (or just need a little encouragement), talk to your healthcare provider or email Colonhealth@ykhc.org. Screening for colorectal cancer gives peace of mind – and could save your life. Keep our communities healthy. Let’s get screened.