March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, where men and women are reminded that early detection is often the key to survival where cancer is concerned.

The primary way for a person to find out if they have colorectal cancer is through a colonoscopy. However, Justin Chapman, Laboratory Performance and Excellence Manager with Dallas County Hospital, says there’s a different test called “Cologuard,” which can save you the trouble of going through a colonoscopy. “Cologuard is a screening test for the abnormal DNA in your stool sample. If there are abnormal results found, then you’ll be referred to your family doctor to be scheduled for a colonoscopy. It’s a little less invasive of a test. Cologuard test is something that is sent to your home, you can collect it from home, and send it back to the company for testing. It’s a good alternative for a colonoscopy if you’re at a low or average risk for colon cancer.”

Chapman says Cologuard tests aren’t offered directly through DCH, but they can be acquired through the Mercy Family Healthcare Clinic in Perry. He adds, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or are at a higher risk, it’s recommended to just get a colonoscopy. After the age of 50, men and women should get colon screenings every five years. If you have questions about the procedure or your risk factors, Chapman suggests talking with your family physician.

To learn more about Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, listen to this past Thursday’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program at RaccoonValleyRadio.com.