Question 1

What is Colorectal cancer?

Accepted Answer

Colorectal cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in the colon or rectum, typically starting as polyps in the intestinal lining. It is caused by genetic mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth, with BRAF mutations occurring in approximately 10% of cases. The BRAF Mutation Analysis is the most important genetic test for colorectal cancer because it guides treatment decisions and predicts therapy response.

Question 2

What causes colorectal cancer?

Accepted Answer

Colorectal cancer is caused by genetic mutations that trigger uncontrolled growth of cells in the colon or rectum. These mutations can be inherited through family genetics or acquired over time through lifestyle factors like smoking, heavy alcohol use, high consumption of red and processed meats, obesity, and physical inactivity. Certain genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis significantly increase risk. Age is also a major factor, with most cases occurring in people over 50, though rates are rising in younger adults.

Question 3

What is the best test for colorectal cancer?

Accepted Answer

The BRAF Mutation Analysis is the most important blood test for colorectal cancer management because it detects specific genetic mutations that occur in about 10% of colorectal cancers. This test is essential for treatment planning since BRAF mutations indicate resistance to certain chemotherapy drugs and are associated with poorer prognosis, helping your oncologist select the most effective treatment strategy. The IGF-2 test is also valuable for monitoring tumor activity by measuring insulin-like growth factor-2 levels, which are often elevated in colorectal cancer and contribute to tumor growth. While colonoscopy remains the gold standard for diagnosis, these blood tests provide crucial genetic information that guides personalized treatment decisions.

Question 4

When should I get tested for colorectal cancer?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you notice blood in your stool, persistent changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks, unexplained weight loss, constant abdominal pain or cramping, or persistent fatigue and weakness. People with a family history of colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease should begin screening earlier than age 45. If you have already been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, genetic testing like BRAF Mutation Analysis should be performed to guide your treatment plan and predict how well certain therapies will work.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Accepted Answer

Colorectal cancer symptoms include persistent changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool that appears bright red or very dark, narrow stools, constant abdominal discomfort including cramps or gas, feeling that your bowel does not empty completely, unexplained weight loss, and persistent fatigue or weakness. Many people with early-stage colorectal cancer have no symptoms at all, which is why regular screening starting at age 45 is so important. If you experience any of these symptoms, especially blood in your stool or lasting bowel changes, you should see your doctor promptly.

Question 6

Who is at risk for colorectal cancer?

Accepted Answer

People over age 50 are at highest risk for colorectal cancer, though rates are increasing in younger adults. Your risk increases significantly if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, inherited genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis, inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, or a personal history of polyps or cancer. Lifestyle factors that increase risk include obesity, physical inactivity, a diet high in red and processed meats, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and type 2 diabetes. African Americans have the highest colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates of any racial group in the United States.

Question 7

What happens if colorectal cancer is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated colorectal cancer will continue to grow and spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream and lymphatic system, most commonly metastasizing to the liver, lungs, and peritoneum. As the tumor grows, it can cause complete bowel obstruction requiring emergency surgery, severe anemia from chronic bleeding leading to extreme fatigue and weakness, liver failure if cancer spreads extensively to the liver, and ultimately death. Early-stage colorectal cancer has a five-year survival rate above 90%, but this drops dramatically to about 14% once cancer has spread to distant organs. This is why early detection through screening and prompt treatment is absolutely critical.

Question 8

Can colorectal cancer be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Colorectal cancer cannot be diagnosed with a blood test alone, as colonoscopy with tissue biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosis. However, blood tests play a crucial role once cancer is suspected or diagnosed. The BRAF Mutation Analysis identifies genetic mutations that guide treatment selection and predict how aggressive the cancer may be. The IGF-2 test measures hormone levels associated with tumor growth and can help monitor disease progression and treatment response. Some doctors also monitor carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels, a tumor marker that can be elevated in colorectal cancer. These blood tests provide valuable information for managing your cancer but cannot replace colonoscopy for initial diagnosis.

Question 9

How is colorectal cancer treated?

Accepted Answer

Colorectal cancer is treated based on the stage of the disease, genetic characteristics of the tumor, and your overall health. Surgery to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue is the primary treatment for localized cancer. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and may be given before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells and is often combined with chemotherapy, especially for rectal cancer. Targeted therapy drugs attack specific genetic mutations like BRAF, which is why genetic testing is so important. Immunotherapy helps your immune system recognize and attack cancer cells and works particularly well for tumors with certain genetic features. Your oncologist will create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific cancer characteristics.

Question 10

How can I prevent colorectal cancer?

Accepted Answer

You can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer by getting regular screening colonoscopies starting at age 45, or earlier if you have risk factors. Maintain a healthy weight through regular physical activity, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting red meat and avoiding processed meats. Do not smoke and limit alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and two for men. Take a daily vitamin D supplement and consider calcium supplementation, as studies suggest these may reduce colorectal cancer risk. If you have inflammatory bowel disease, work closely with your gastroenterologist to manage inflammation and monitor for precancerous changes.

Question 11

What can I do at home to support colorectal cancer treatment?

Accepted Answer

While undergoing colorectal cancer treatment, you can support your body by eating small, frequent meals to manage treatment side effects like nausea and maintain adequate nutrition. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Engage in gentle physical activity like walking, which can reduce fatigue and improve overall well-being during treatment. Manage stress through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, as chronic stress can impact immune function. Keep a symptom diary to track side effects and share with your oncologist so they can adjust treatment as needed. Join a cancer support group to connect with others going through similar experiences. Get adequate rest and sleep to allow your body to heal and recover between treatment sessions.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Colorectal Cancer Blood Test

What is Colorectal cancer?

What causes colorectal cancer?

What is the best test for colorectal cancer?

When should I get tested for colorectal cancer?

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