UNDERSTANDING YOUR COLOGUARD® TEST RESULTS

What a negative or positive result could mean

The Cologuard test looks for both DNA and blood in your stool. It can detect both precancer and cancer cells. After you ship your kit back to our lab, you will receive either a negative or positive result.1


In a clinical study of 10,000 people between 50 to 84 with average risk, Cologuard detected 92% of colon cancer. Meanwhile, 87% of patients without colon cancer received a negative test result.


It’s important to know that a positive Cologuard test is not a cancer diagnosis. Lean on your health care provider for your next steps, or reach out to us for support through our telehealth service.

What does a negative Cologuard result mean?

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What a negative result means:
  • The Cologuard test did not detect altered DNA and/or blood in your stool
  • You’re unlikely to have colon cancer

False negatives can occur. When you discuss your result with a health care provider, ask when you should screen again.

What does a positive Cologuard result mean?

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If you receive a positive result:
  • The Cologuard test detected altered DNA and/or blood in your stool —this could be due to precancerous growths, colon cancer, or other factors.
  • Know that a positive result is not the same as a cancer diagnosis.
  • Your next step is to have a colonoscopy as soon as possible. Many patients with early‐stage colon cancer have no symptoms and are diagnosed through screening.2

False positives can occur. When you discuss your result with a health care provider, you will need to plan a colonoscopy to confirm your result.

Steps to take after getting a result

For any result, it’s important to discuss next steps with your health care provider or a telehealth specialist.

After a negative result:

Regardless of race, ethnicity, or gender, the American Cancer Society recommends screening for colon cancer at age 45. If you receive a negative result, it’s recommended that you screen again in 3 years.3

After a positive result:

Follow up with your health care provider and schedule a colonoscopy to see what this positive result means for you.

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As part of preventive care and screening, most health plans cover a colonoscopy after a positive Cologuard test result.*


* Exceptions for coverage may apply; please confirm with your insurer. They are the best source of information on your plan and coverage.

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