Stool DNA test

    The stool DNA test, also known as Cologuard, is an at-home screening test for colorectal cancer. It tests for blood and DNA changes in the stool, which may indicate colorectal cancer.

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    Step by step

    1. Place test bracket on toilet bowl
    2. Place kit container in bracket
    3. Sit on toilet and have bowel movement into container
    4. Remove container and scrape stool sample with kit probe
    5. Place sample in tube and set aside
    6. Add enclosed liquid preservative to container; close tightly
    7. Immediately send both tube and container to testing address by mail

    How it works

    • Like FIT, the stool DNA test (Cologuard) detects microscopic amounts of blood in stool, but also looks for certain DNA changes that are found in cancerous tumors or precancerous polyps. 
    • Cells from precancerous and cancerous lesions with certain mutations often shed DNA biomarkers into the stool, where this test can detect them.
    • Because DNA markers may be present in only very small quantities in stool, sensitive laboratory methods are used to detect the markers. The stool DNA test has high detection rates of early-stage colon cancer.

    What are biomarkers?

    Talking to your doctor about screening

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