No Prep, No Stress: A Better Way to Screen for Colon Cancer at Legacy Community Health

Colon cancer is a serious health issue—but preventing it doesn’t have to be a pain in the… well, you know. It’s the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., yet one of the most preventable cancers with early detection.

As we reach the halfway point of the year, it’s a great time to think about your health goals and wellness check-ins. Whether you’re catching up on screenings you’ve missed or planning ahead, Legacy Community Health offers an easy, non-invasive screening option—Cologuard—that fits your busy summer schedule.

What is Cologuard, and How Does it Work?

Cologuard is an at-home test that screens for colon cancer by detecting DNA and blood in your stool. Unlike a traditional colonoscopy, there’s no prep, no dietary restrictions, and no need for sedation. The process is simple:

1. Your Legacy provider orders the test.
2. A kit is mailed to your home.
3. You collect a sample and send it back in the prepaid box.
4. Your results arrive within a couple of weeks.

That’s it—no hospital visits, no time off work, and no uncomfortable preparation.

Clinical studies show that Cologuard has a sensitivity of 92.3% for detecting colorectal cancer and 42-43% sensitivity for advanced precancerous lesions. The newly launched Cologuard Plus™ test, available since March 2025, offers even higher sensitivity, with a 95% detection rate for colorectal cancer and improved accuracy for identifying advanced precancerous lesions.

Why Screening Matters

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. among both men and women, with about 140,000 Americans diagnosed each year and more than 50,000 lives lost. The disease often develops silently, without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why regular screenings are so important for early detection and effective treatment.

When caught early, colorectal cancer has a 90% survival rate, but unfortunately, most cases are diagnosed at later stages when treatment options are less effective. Risk factors include genetics, age, family history, obesity, smoking, certain diets, and heavy drinking.

Legacy’s Tenesha Hill points out that African Americans experience the highest mortality and lowest survival rates due to lower screening rates and limited healthcare access. Despite these challenges, colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable when detected early. That’s why experts, including the American Cancer Society, recommend starting regular screenings at age 45—even if you feel healthy. Simple tests like stool-based screenings or colonoscopies can make the difference between early treatment and a late-stage diagnosis.

Who Should Use Cologuard?

Cologuard is designed for average-risk adults aged 45 and older who do not have:

• A personal history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps
• A family history of colorectal cancer or hereditary syndromes like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
• Inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
• Previous radiation therapy to the abdomen or pelvis

If you meet these criteria, Cologuard can be a convenient first step for colorectal cancer screening. However, you should discuss your personal health history with your Legacy provider to determine if this test is right for you.

When is a Colonoscopy Still Necessary?

While Cologuard is a convenient first-line screening tool, it’s not a replacement for a colonoscopy in every case. If your results come back positive, you’ll need a follow-up colonoscopy to confirm whether cancer or precancerous polyps are present. Additionally, those with higher risk factors should still opt for a colonoscopy as their primary screening method.

Legacy’s Terlin Ramirez emphasizes the importance of screenings, especially for those at higher risk. A colonoscopy remains the best option for detecting and removing polyps before they turn cancerous.

Common Questions About Cologuard

• Will My Insurance Cover Cologuard? Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover Cologuard as a preventive screening test for those who meet the eligibility criteria. Legacy Community Health can help you navigate insurance coverage and answer any questions about costs.
• How to Get Your Cologuard Test with Legacy: Getting screened is easy. Simply schedule an appointment with your Legacy provider to discuss whether Cologuard is right for you. If it is, they’ll order the test, and you’ll receive your kit at home. If your results indicate any concerns, Legacy’s medical team will guide you through the next steps, including scheduling a colonoscopy if needed.

Don’t Let Colon Cancer Catch You Off Guard

Don’t let colon cancer catch you off guard—take control of your health today. With easy, at-home screenings like Cologuard, protecting yourself has never been more convenient. No prep, no stress, just peace of mind.

If you’re 45 or older, you may qualify for a free at-home colorectal cancer screening kit. To learn more about your risk factors and if you qualify for free screenings and risk assessments, visit www.legacycommunityhealth.org/PreventCancer/ or call (832) 548-5431 to speak with a Legacy team member.