All Blood Tests

When we reach a certain age (usually 50) physicians suggest that we all be tested for colon cancer. Colon cancer has become one of the most deadly cancers and because of this we need to be on cautious watch for it. There are several tests that are used to look for colon cancer and none of them are pleasant. However, all of them will have their benefits. We’ve provided information on the different treatments and what you can expect from each one. Your personal physician will suggest which one is best for your body.

Colonoscopy – During a colonoscopy your doctor will insert a flexible tube called the colonoscope up into your anus. Your doctor will watch the progress of the camera on a video monitor as it makes its way through your rectum and into your colon. In case you were wondering this test is as unpleasant as it sounds.  The good news is you will be sedated during the procedure. One excellent benefit of this test is that when the doctor finds any pre-cancerous polyps they are able to remove them. This procedure is typically covered by insurance – but can cost $800-$1,200 without it.

Virtual Colonoscopy – This kind of test allows physicians to look inside the colon and rectum without having to stick something inside of you. They use the virtual colonoscopy to look for cancer, polyps, and other abnormalities that could be lurking inside the colon or rectum. This kind of test uses a computer program to develop a 3D picture of the large intestine through the use of x-ray images. This kind of test can cost $500-$900.

Barium Enema – During test the doctor will fill your colon with barium sulfate. As you hold the liquid inside of you they’ll take x-rays as you move in different directions. This provides them with many x-rays with a two-dimensional view of your rectum and colon. This procedure can cost $250-$500.

Sigmoidoscopy – This test is very similar to the colonoscopy.  The difference is that it lets the physician check the lower part of the colon. This test is more affordable for most individuals  and ordinarily only costs $150-$300 for those who do not have insurance.

Stool Testing – There are two different kinds of stool tests. There is the stool DNA test and the occult blood test. Each one of these tests can be performed right in your doctor’s office or at your home.

1.) Stool DNA testing is current method of stool testing. This particular test will look for traces of DNA material that is discarded by colorectal tumors or polyps. It is the most sensitive and most costly stool procedure that can cost around $80.

2.) Fecal occult blood tests search for hidden blood in your stool through the use of a chemical reaction.  The most common fecal occult blood test is EZ Detect that can cost around $10.  The Colon Health Make sure to check can cost around $35.