Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Unfortunately, there may be no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer. That’s why it’s often called a “silent killer.” Occasionally, patients may experience non-specific symptoms such as a blood in the stool, a change in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, stools that are narrower than usual, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, bloating, cramps, gas, nausea or vomiting.

2. At what age should I be screened for colorectal cancer?

Men and women with no known risk factors should begin regular screenings at age 50. The American Cancer Society recommends a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) on an annual basis for these individuals. People with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors should consult their physician, however. Screenings may be urged at age 40, or even earlier, if you’re deemed at high risk.

3. If I’ve noticed blood in my stool, does that mean I have colorectal cancer?

No. Several conditions – including hemorrhoids, anal fissures and ulcerative colitis – can be responsible for blood in the stool. Because of the life-threatening nature of colorectal cancer, however, you should always consult a physician to determine the cause.

4. What are the risk factors for colorectal cancer?

• Age (50 and older)
• Family history
• Ulcerative colitis
• Crohn’s disease
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Physical inactivity
• History of colorectal polyps (growths)
• Ashkenazi Jewish heritage

5. How do you test me for colorectal cancer?

At The Center for Colorectal Health, we perform annual fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) on patients age 50 and older after treating and resolving any hemorrhoids or anal fissures. This inexpensive, painless, non-invasive test involves capturing a small amount of stool at home for lab processing. A positive result means the test has detected the presence of blood in the stool, and if that’s the case, a follow-up colonoscopy is necessary to confirm a diagnosis.

6. Do I have to get a colonoscopy?

If you get an annual fecal occult blood test (FOBT), and it comes back negative each year, you do not need to get a colonoscopy according to the American Cancer Society’s screening guidelines. Should your FOBT comes back positive, however, you would need a follow-up colonoscopy to diagnose the cause of bleeding. We do not perform this procedure at The Center for Colorectal Health but will refer to you another reputable healthcare facility.

7. Does insurance cover the fecal occult blood test (FOBT)?

We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare. If you’re age 50 or older and have Medicare benefits, an annual FOBT is included in your coverage. As other insurance plans may vary, however, please call the nearest center for assistance with regards to your specific policy.

8. Why do I have to treat my hemorrhoids before I can get screened with FOBT?

A common symptom of hemorrhoids is bleedings. For accurate results, hemorrhoids (as well as anal fissures) must be treated and resolved prior to FOBT screening to eliminate any known causes of blood in the stool.

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