The American Gastroenterological Association said on June 17 that patients and primary care providers should understand the differences among available colorectal cancer screening tests as new guidance brings attention to an expanding array of options. AGA experts said that while screening is proven to save lives, the choice of test can significantly impact outcomes.
According to the association, colonoscopy remains the strongest option for colorectal cancer screening. AGA recommends colonoscopy because it is currently the only test that both detects colorectal cancer early and allows doctors to remove precancerous polyps during the same procedure.
Stool-based tests are described by AGA as a reasonable alternative when colonoscopy is not available or feasible. The association advises patients who select stool-based screening that abnormal results must be followed up with a colonoscopy, and emphasizes that testing must be repeated at recommended intervals.
AGA experts urge caution regarding blood-based tests, stating these are less effective than either colonoscopy or stool tests in detecting colorectal cancer. Additionally, blood-based tests cannot identify precancerous polyps, which should be removed before they develop into cancer.
Health care providers seeking further details about these options are encouraged by AGA to review its clinical practice update titled "Current Role of Blood Tests for Colorectal Cancer Screening."
