8 Things to Know About the Blood Test for Colon Cancer

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Shield, a new blood test for colon cancer screening developed by Guardant Health.

What does this mean for you, and will it replace your colonoscopy? We went to Amanda Ayers, MD, a colon and rectal surgeon with the Hartford HealthCare Digestive Health Institute, for answers.

“Colon cancer has the best outcomes when discovered early, often before symptoms develop,” says Dr. Ayers. “This is why screening is so important, yet only 59% of people nationally are up to date.”

The new recommended age to begin colon cancer screening is 45. While colonoscopy is effective for screening and prevention, it can present barriers for some patients.

Is the Shield blood test right for you?

If you’re hesitant about undergoing a colonoscopy or stool-based tests, the Shield blood test might be an option. To provide clarity, we consulted Dr. Ayers.

While this discussion should start with your doctor, she shares these top 8 things you need to know about Shield