For adults at average risk for colon cancer
If you’re 45 or older, have no personal or immediate family history of colon cancer, and aren’t showing any signs or symptoms, you're considered at average risk.
Know the signs and symptoms
As we age, the risk of developing colon cancer increases.1 Although early-stage colon cancer often has no obvious signs, common symptoms to watch out for include:
- Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Abdominal discomfort (e.g., cramping, gas, or pain)
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or weakness (often due to anemia)
- Low red blood cell count detected via blood work
While these issues aren't exclusive to colon cancer and may result from other conditions, see your doctor if major bowel habit changes last several days.
I feel fine, so I don’t have to screen…right?
A common myth about colon cancer is that screening is only needed if you already have symptoms like pain or bleeding. The truth is, early-stage colon cancer can be a silent disease with no warning signs at all.2
This is why early detection is key. Screenings can spot precancerous polyps before they become more serious. Waiting for symptoms often means the cancer has already progressed.
When Cologuard Plus is not right for you
Review these exclusions before using any Cologuard product. If any apply to you, please consult your doctor or primary care provider to explore other screening options.
Why choose Cologuard
No hassle, no prep
Your kit is delivered right to your door. Keep your diet and medications as they are.
Your time, your space, your pace
No in-person appointment is needed. Collect your stool sample at home and on your schedule.
Chosen by 20 million patients3 and trusted by over 340,000 providers4
Simple, effective, and FDA-approved.
Screened with the Cologuard test
Read his storyReady to get started?
We can help you request a Cologuard Plus test today, either from your doctor or a telehealth specialist.
Frequently asked questions
If you’ve had a colonoscopy in the past that revealed the presence of polyps such as adenomas, it is not recommended that you screen with the Cologuard Plus test. It is only recommended for average-risk individuals. Do not use if you have:
- Had adenomas, which are a type of colon polyp that can sometimes become cancerous
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other hereditary syndromes
- A personal or first-degree family history of colorectal cancer
- A positive result from another colon cancer screening method within that test's recommended screening interval
Talk to your provider if any of these situations apply to you.
Cologuard Plus™ Clinician Brochure. Madison, WI: Exact Sciences Corporation.
ACS. American Cancer Society guideline for colorectal cancer screening. Updated May 27, 2026. Accessed May 28, 2026. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html