The American Cancer Society sets the record straight about colon screenings.

Published: March 26, 2019 | Updated: November 4, 2024

You know those things we tell ourselves and repeat so often, or hear so often, we come to assume they’re true? Those things might just be myths, and when it comes to myths about our health, believing them could cost us a lot.

Here are five myths and five facts you should know about getting your colon cancer screening, provided by the American Cancer Society.

RELATED CONTENT: 7 things to know about getting a colonoscopy

READ MORE: What’s the right age to start getting Pap smear tests?

Quit believing these myths about colon cancer screenings

MYTH No. 1: A colon cancer screening is too expensive.

• FACT: Most colon cancer screening tests are covered by insurance, including Medicare. There are also low-cost screening options.

MYTH No. 2: Nobody in my family has a history of colorectal cancer, so I am not at risk.

• FACT: Most colon cancers are found in people without a family history. Those with a family history are at higher risk.

MYTH No. 3: If my stool looks normal, I should be fine.

• FACT: You can have colon cancer or colon polyps even if your stool looks normal.

MYTH No. 4: Colon cancer is not that common.

• FACT: Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. Screening is the best way to prevent death from colon cancer.

MYTH No. 5: A colonoscopy is the only way to get screened for colon cancer.

• FACT: There are several different screening tests available. Some are simple and can be done at home.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, so this month, and throughout the year, we’re sharing important resources from the American Cancer Society. Colorectal cancer, often called colon cancer, is cancer that starts in the colon or rectum.

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women combined nationwide. Often you may not experience symptoms of colon cancer until it has reached an advanced stage. That’s why colon cancer prevention and screening are so important.

You can read more about colon cancer on the American Cancer Society’s website.