Why Get Screened?

You could have a polyp growing inside your colon or rectum right now. 

A polyp is a small pre-cancerous growth that with time will develop into a cancerous mass. Left untreated, cancer in the colon or rectum can spread to other organs and lymph nodes in the body and result in serious illness or death. 

The only way to know is to get tested for colon cancer through screening. 

While the idea of a colonoscopy may be unappealing, screening on time could save you and your family time and money and spare unnecessary suffering or loss. 

While screening may feel like a big inconvenience now, it would be nothing compared to the long-term and potentially fatal consequences of having colorectal cancer. 

Simply put, screening could save your life. It could save you money. And it could spare you and your loved ones unnecessary suffering.

 

Common Excuses Debunked!

“But I’m not having any symptoms.”

“I don’t have symptoms, so I’m good, right?”  Wrong. Many diagnosed with young colon cancer reported having no symptoms at all. That’s why it’s so important to get screened on time at age 45, or at 40 if you have a family history. 

“I’m too busy.”

We know you’ve got a lot on your plate. But by neglecting your preventative health by putting off screening, you could be gambling with your own life. Colon cancer, like other serious illnesses, can steal years off your life. It is a major threat to you and the people you love. 

The good news is screening tests are getting more and more accessible. Those at average risk for colon cancer (no family history) have the option of a simple, noninvasive take-home stool test like Cologuard or FIT.  Start the conversation about take-home tests for colon cancer with your doctor at your next appointment.  

“I’d rather not know.”

Nobody wants to hear they have cancer. But even if your screening reveals you have a cancerous polyp, it is better for your doctor to discover it now so they can begin treating it before it grows, spreads, and it’s too late. Early detection means a better chance of beating it. 

“A colonoscopy is painful and invasive.” 

Colonoscopies have come a long way in the past few years. Only in rare cases are colonoscopies painful, usually in people who have scar tissue or other prior conditions. 

While it’s true the nature of the procedure is invasive, you will be comfortable and asleep the entire time. Find a provider you trust and before the procedure, be sure to express any concerns and ask any questions you have. 

“No one in my family has it. So why should I be worried?”

You do not have to have a family history to get colon cancer. 75% of people diagnosed with colon cancer have no family history.

“I can’t afford it.” 

If you are insured, Kentucky has some of the best laws regarding private insurance coverage for colon cancer screening. Refer to our “Legislation and Coding Update” page. If you are currently uninsured or underinsured and you live in Kentucky, you may qualify for a free colonoscopy, take-home stool test, or other no-cost screening services. Contact the Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening and Prevention Program at 859-309-1700 or 877-597-4655, or click here to request a free screening.