Early Detection Is Key

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. Routine screening is essential to catching potential issues before symptoms appear, giving you the best chance for successful treatment. At SEARHC, we are committed to making colorectal cancer screening accessible and convenient to meet the needs of Southeast Alaska communities.

Why is Colorectal Screening Important?

Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms, making regular screenings critical for early detection. Through screening, precancerous polyps or early-stage cancers can be identified and addressed before they become more serious. SEARHC provides high-quality screening options to ensure the health and well-being of our communities.

• Tailored to you. We offer screening options suited to different needs, from colonoscopies to convenient at-home testing with the I-FIT test.
• Preventive care saves lives. Early detection increases treatment success rates and reduces cancer-related deaths. Regular screening can reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer by 68%.¹
• Colorectal cancer disproportionately affects Alaska Native communities. Alaska Natives have the highest colorectal cancer incidence rates in the world, highlighting the importance of early and consistent screening.¹

Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Screening can prevent up to 60% of colorectal cancer deaths by detecting precancerous polyps or early-stage cancers before they progress.² Learn more about your colorectal screening options.

¹ Haverkamp, D., Redwood, D., Roik, E., Vindigni, S., & Thomas, T. (2023). Elevated colorectal cancer incidence among American Indian/Alaska Native persons in Alaska compared to other populations worldwide. International Journal of Circumpolar Health.
² American Cancer Society. (2022). Colorectal Cancer Facts & Figures 2020-2022.

When to Start Screening

Screening recommendations vary based on age, risk factors and other criteria. Regular screenings are vital to detecting colorectal cancer early and preventing serious complications. See the guidelines below, created to ensure our communities receive timely and appropriate care.

• With Family History: Screening is recommended 10 years prior to a family member’s diagnosis.
• For Alaska Natives: Screening is recommended starting at age 40. Alaska Native populations are at higher risk of colorectal cancer making early intervention critical.
• For Non-Alaska Natives: Screening is recommended beginning at age 50. For individuals with average risk, this timeline provides optimal balance between prevention and early detection.

Screening Options at SEARHC

Colonoscopy

• A comprehensive screening method that allows for both detection and removal of precancerous polyps.
• Recommended every 10 years for eligible patients, with “normal” prior results. Frequency will vary for individuals depending on prior exams and family history.

I-FIT At-Home Test

• A simple, non-invasive stool test that detects hidden blood, which may indicate colorectal cancer.
• Suitable for low-risk patients who meet specific eligibility criteria.
• Conveniently completed at home and submitted to your care team for analysis.
• Recommended annually for eligible patients.

If you meet any of the following conditions, you may require a colonoscopy instead of an I-FIT test:

• Family or personal history of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps.
• Symptoms such as rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss.
• Diagnosed conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or inflammatory bowel disease.

Schedule Your Colorectal Screening Today

Protect your health! Colorectal screening is offered through SEARHC in both Sitka and Wrangell. Schedule your colorectal screening with SEARHC and take the first step toward prevention and early detection.