Can I screen for cancer at home?

Q:I’m 57 and had a colonoscopy six years ago. I had no polyps and don’t have a family history of colon cancer. The prep for the test is such a chore, and I keep seeing ads for athome screening kits. Do they work?

A:You shouldn’t forgo a colonoscopy, which for someone like you, with no family history and good results on a prior test, is recommended every 10 years. But Cologuard, the only FDA-approved at-home test, could give you peace of mind between screenings. That’s because it is effective: In a study of nearly 10,000 patients, it detected 92% of colon cancers. Although, unlike a colonoscopy, it can’t screen for ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s. And if the test finds anything, you’ll likely need a colonoscopy to confirm.

You need a prescription to get Cologuard, and your doctor can write one if she thinks the test is a fit for you. The test is often covered by insurance for folks between 50 and 75 with average risk factors, but check with your carrier if you’re considering it, as other factors can affect coverage.