Cologuard® & FIT FAQs

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. Screening helps detect cancer early when it is most treatable and can even prevent cancer by identifying and removing precancerous growths. 

Cologuard is a noninvasive at-home screening test that looks for abnormal DNA and blood in your stool, which can be indicative of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps. It is a simple and effective way to screen for colorectal cancer without the need for special preparation. 

Your healthcare provider has already ordered a Cologuard kit for you. Once you request your kit, Cologuard will send it directly to your home within 7-10 business days. You will receive instructions and reminders via mail, phone, or text message to help you complete and return the test. 

No special preparation, dietary restrictions, or medication adjustments are needed before using the Cologuard test. You can complete the test in the privacy and comfort of your own home. 

It is generally recommended to begin screening at age 45. However, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors, your healthcare provider may recommend starting earlier. The frequency of screening will depend on your individual risk factors and the results of your previous screenings. 

If your Cologuard test results are positive, it does not necessarily mean you have cancer, but further evaluation is necessary. Your healthcare provider will likely recommend a follow-up colonoscopy to investigate the cause of the positive result. 

If you prefer to undergo a colonoscopy, that option remains available. Kindly consult your Primary Care Provider for guidance on the next steps. 

Cologuard is usually covered by insurance as preventative care. Exact Sciences (Cologuard) will verify your insurance before mailing the kit to inform you of any costs.

You can find more information by visiting the Cologuard website.

A FIT test is a fecal immunochemical test designed to detect hidden blood in your stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer. This test is noninvasive, requires no special preparation, and can be completed in the comfort of your home. 

Your FIT kit will come with detailed instructions on how to collect your stool sample and return it to us for analysis. The process is simple and designed to ensure you can complete it easily at home. 

No, the FIT test requires no special preparation, dietary changes, or medication adjustments. It is safe, painless, and straightforward to complete. 

Screening is generally recommended to start at age 45. However, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors, your healthcare provider may advise starting earlier. The frequency of screening will depend on your individual risk factors and previous test results. 

A positive FIT test result does not necessarily mean you have cancer, but it indicates that further evaluation is needed. Your healthcare provider will likely recommend a follow-up colonoscopy to investigate the cause of the positive result. 

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and women in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. Early detection through screening can prevent cancer or catch it in its most treatable stages, significantly improving outcomes. 

If you prefer to undergo a colonoscopy, that option remains available. Kindly consult your Primary Care Provider for guidance on the next steps.