Colon Health
Source: Cologuard®
Talking about colon health isn’t anyone’s favorite topic, but it’s an important one. Colon cancer is the 3rd most commonly diagnosed cancer, and many people aren’t getting screened as often as they should, or at all.
Screening is important to find cancer early, when it’s easier to treat. It is the most preventable, yet least prevented cancer. When caught in its early stages (1 and 2), colon cancer is survivable in about 90% of people.
Many people delay colon cancer screening because they feel healthy or aren’t sure when it’s needed. But screenings can save lives. So, don’t wait — get screened today.
Myth Busting
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| I’m too young to worry about colorectal cancer. | Colon cancer is rising among adults under 55 years old, and screening is now recommended starting at 45 years old. |
| I feel healthy, so I don’t need to be screened. | That’s the best time to screen! When colon cancer is in an early, often treatable stage, most people don’t feel any symptoms. And it’s important to know that 9 out of 10 people survive colon cancer when it’s caught early. Screening is one way to catch colon cancer early. |
| Screening only detects problems. I don’t want to know if I have a problem. | Actually, screening can prevent problems. Most colon cancers start as small growths called polyps that can be removed long before they become serious. |
| If no one in my family has had colorectal cancer, I’m not at risk. | Most people diagnosed with colon cancer have no family history. Screening is an easy way to get peace of mind. |
| If I eat well and exercise, I don’t need to screen. | Healthy habits help lower your risk, but even people who eat right and stay active can develop colon cancer. That’s why screening is the best way to reduce your risk. |
Colon Cancer FAQs
What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer begins in the colon (also known as the large intestine). It usually starts with the growth of polyps which are small, usually harmless growths in the colon. Left undetected, they can develop into cancer over time.
What type of screening tests are available?
The most important thing is to get screened, no matter which test you choose! Colon screening test options include a colonoscopy (visual exam) by a doctor and a stool-based test such as Cologuard which searches for abnormal DNA or blood. See Screening Tests, and speak to your doctor if you are not sure which option is right for you.
How can I reduce my risk of getting colon cancer?
- Talk with your doctor.
- Visit the American Cancer Society.
- Contact our onsite health coach.
Cologuard Test Kit
To make screening convenient, our medical provider, UMR (UnitedHealthcare) is partnering with Exact Sciences/Cologuard to mail test kits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Unlike a colonoscopy, the Cologuard kit requires no prep, no time off, is non-invasive, and can be used in the privacy of your home. Simply ship it back postage-paid to the lab for testing.
Who will get a kit?
Cologuard test kits will be mailed in late March/early April 2026 to employees and their dependents who are due for a colon cancer screening.
Who should use the kit?
The Cologuard test kit is for people 45 or older at average risk. That means you don’t have a personal or family history of colon cancer or other high-risk conditions. If you’re not sure if the test is right for you, talk with your doctor.
How much does the kit cost?
The kit is free to you; it’s a benefit covered by your UMR (UnitedHealthcare) medical plan. There is also no cost to Pinellas County to mail the kits. The County will be billed only for kits that are returned for testing.
Is the Cologuard kit for colon and rectal cancer?
Yes. The test can detect signs of both colon and rectal cancer.
What if I don’t want a Cologuard test kit?
If you receive a letter from Cologuard in early March that a kit is being mailed, but you do not want it (for example, you already have a colonoscopy scheduled), follow the instructions in the letter to opt out. Your eligible dependents can follow the same process.
I got a kit, but I won't be using it. Should I send it back?
Please discuss your colon cancer screening plan with your health care provider. If you choose not to screen for colon cancer with the Cologuard test, please discard the kit since it cannot be reused. Pinellas County will not be charged unless a sample is received and processed.
What if I have questions about the kit?
Contact Exact Sciences 24/7 at (844) 340-1594 or visit Cologuard.com/why.
Free Screening Kit
For your convenience, eligible employees and dependents on the medical plan will get a free Cologuard test kit.
The kits will be mailed in late March/early April.
Colon Cancer Fast Facts
- 1 in 5 new cases occur in people under age 55
- 9 of 10 people survive when it’s caught early
- 45 years is the new recommended screening age
- 75% have no family history of colon cancer
- 3rd most diagnosed cancer in the U.S.
- 3rd most deadly cancer in the U.S.
Learn more about the free Cologuard test kit.
Wellness Rewards
Colorectal screenings qualify for Wellness Incentive Program rewards of $50 or 12,500 points. This includes at-home test kits such as Cologuard and colonoscopies.
2/23/26