The Cologuard® test screens for the most preventable but least prevented cancer.
Anne grew up in a small farm town in southeast Nebraska, where her upbringing was filled with lessons on problem solving, teamwork and the importance of giving back. These qualities have carried her through life.
From her days as a track athlete to her current role as a founder and entrepreneur, Anne works closely with student athletes, helping them share their stories and prepare for life after sports. By sharing her own experiences and helping athletes see their value, Anne has truly become the ultimate “coach.”
When she turned 46, Anne’s gynecologist recommended she start screening for colorectal cancer, mentioning the ease, convenience, and accuracy of the Cologuard® test. Anne, who has always prioritized her health since her running days, decided to act immediately. “It seemed pretty easy to do, and I figured it was time to get screened, but I was also hesitant about the time and preparation required for a colonoscopy,” Anne recalled. “Cologuard felt like a simple, non-invasive option that fit better with my lifestyle.”
The ease of the Cologuard test, done in the privacy of her home and sent back to the lab for results, made the process straightforward and less intimidating than a colonoscopy. As a test included in U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations and FDA-approved for CRC screening, detecting both precancer and cancer, the Cologuard test is available for average-risk adults, 45 years and older. A collection kit is sent to a person’s home and 96% of eligible patients have no out-of-pocket costs.
Within days, Anne received a positive result from her Cologuard test, requiring her to undergo a colonoscopy. The colonoscopy revealed three polyps, two of which were precancerous — abnormal cells that have the potential to become cancerous. “It was really good that we caught this. I felt lucky,” Anne reflected. “What would have happened if I had waited until I was 50?”
One of the main goals of colon cancer screening is to find cancer early, when it’s easiest to treat, and to find growths that could turn into cancer so they can be removed. The Cologuard test works well for finding both early-stage cancer and precancerous growths. Catching precancers or cancer at stage 1 gives people a much better chance of surviving than if more advanced CRC is found later. These early detection benefits, especially in a non-invasive test like Cologuard, can help improve outcomes.* While a new blood test is also available for colon cancer screening, it is important to know that it has limited detection of precancer and stage 1 CRC — two key stages when treatment works best.*
Anne believes the decision to screen early changed the trajectory of her life. “We caught them early, before they had the chance to become cancerous. Early detection is crucial,” she emphasized. Anne shares this story to motivate and inspire others, similar to how she has shared her life experiences with her athletes. “When I tell people about my journey, it makes a difference. It’s important to get screened.”
For Anne, receiving a positive result required quick action and a follow-up colonoscopy. Most people who use the Cologuard test receive a negative result and can screen again in three years.
For Anne, early detection means a life free of worry. “I didn’t have cancer, but knowing we caught something early is reassuring,” she said. “Early detection buys you time and peace of mind.”
To learn more about the Cologuard testing kit, visit Cologuard.com
*Based on 5-year survival rates.
About the Cologuard test
The Cologuard test is intended to screen adults 45 years of age and older who are at average risk for colorectal cancer by detecting certain DNA markers and blood in the stool. Do not use if you have had adenomas, have inflammatory bowel disease and certain hereditary syndromes, or a personal or family history of colorectal cancer. The Cologuard test is not a replacement for colonoscopy in high risk patients. Cologuard performance in adults ages 45-49 is estimated based on a large clinical study of patients 50 and older. Cologuard performance in repeat testing has not been evaluated.
The Cologuard test result should be interpreted with caution. A positive test result does not confirm the presence of cancer. Patients with a positive test result should be referred for colonoscopy. A negative test result does not confirm the absence of cancer. Patients with a negative test result should discuss with their doctor when they need to be tested again. False positives and false negative results can occur. In a clinical study, 13% of people without cancer received a positive result (false positive) and 8% of people with cancer received a negative result (false negative). Rx only.
This story reflects on an individual’s experience. Not every person will have the same treatment, experience, outcome, or result. The Cologuard test is prescribed by your health care provider. Talk to your health care provider about available screening options and whether the Cologuard test may be right for you. There are potential risks associated with the Cologuard test and it may not be appropriate for all patients. For more information about the risks, talk to your health care provider or visit www.Cologuard.com for more information.
