This test is ideal if you're concerned about colon cancer but want a less invasive screening option than a colonoscopy. It detects specific DNA changes in your blood that can indicate early signs of colon cancer, making it useful for people at average risk who are due for screening or those who want to monitor their colon health between colonoscopies. Many people choose this test when they have family history of colon cancer or are experiencing concerning symptoms but want a simple blood draw instead of a more invasive procedure.
How should I prepare for this test?
Since no specific testing instructions were provided, you should follow standard blood draw preparation. Generally, this means staying well-hydrated before your appointment and wearing clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up. If you have questions about medication or fasting requirements specific to your situation, contact the lab or your healthcare provider before your test.
What's included in this test?
This test measures methylated Septin 9 DNA in your blood, which is a specific marker that can indicate the presence of colon cancer cells. Septin 9 is a gene that becomes abnormally methylated (chemically modified) in colon cancer, and detecting this change in circulating DNA provides a non-invasive way to screen for cancer. This single biomarker test offers a simpler alternative to stool-based tests or colonoscopy for initial colon cancer screening.
What happens after I get my results?
You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your result means for your colon health and cancer risk. These notes include personalized recommendations on next steps, whether that's continuing regular monitoring, lifestyle changes to support digestive health, or discussing further screening like a colonoscopy with your doctor if needed. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your screening results over time using our trends feature to maintain consistent cancer surveillance.
When will I get my results?
While specific turnaround time wasn't provided for this test, most blood-based cancer screening tests typically take 5-10 business days to process due to the specialized laboratory analysis required. You'll be notified as soon as your results are ready through your secure online account, where you can access both your doctor notes and detailed lab report.
Who should consider getting this test?
This test is ideal for adults aged 45 and older who are due for colon cancer screening, especially those who want to avoid or postpone a colonoscopy. It's particularly suitable for people with family history of colon cancer, those with concerns about their digestive health, or anyone at average risk who prefers a simple blood test as their screening method. It can also be useful for monitoring between colonoscopies or for those with medical conditions that make colonoscopy challenging.
What symptoms indicate I may need this test?
While this test is primarily used for screening in people without symptoms, you should consider it if you're experiencing unexplained changes in bowel habits, blood in your stool, persistent abdominal pain or cramping, or unexplained weight loss. These symptoms could indicate digestive issues that warrant investigation, though many people with early colon cancer have no symptoms at all, which is why screening is so important.
How can I naturally support my colon health?
Supporting colon health involves eating a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting red and processed meats. Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol and smoking significantly reduce colon cancer risk. Staying hydrated, managing stress, and ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake through diet or supplements can also promote digestive health and may help protect against colon cancer.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means methylated Septin 9 DNA was detected in your blood, which suggests the possible presence of colon cancer and requires follow-up with a colonoscopy for definitive diagnosis. It's important to understand that a positive result doesn't confirm cancer, but indicates you need further evaluation. Your doctor will guide you through next steps, which typically include scheduling a colonoscopy to visually examine your colon and take biopsies if needed.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no methylated Septin 9 DNA was detected in your blood, which is reassuring and suggests no signs of colon cancer at this time. However, no screening test is 100% accurate, so it's important to continue regular screening as recommended by your doctor and report any new or concerning symptoms. A negative result supports continuing your preventive care routine and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits for colon health.
How often should I retest for colon cancer screening?
If your result is negative, the recommended retesting interval depends on your individual risk factors and should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Generally, blood-based colon cancer screening may be repeated annually or every 1-3 years for average-risk individuals, though guidelines vary. People with higher risk factors, family history, or previous polyps may need more frequent screening or should consider colonoscopy instead. Always follow your doctor's personalized recommendations for your screening schedule.
How’s this work?
Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.
Long story short:
In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email [email protected] and we'll gladly help you.
How do I know which test to get?
In the test options, find the test you want.
If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at [email protected], and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.
Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?
Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
[email protected]. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.
Do you accept health insurance?
Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
You can read more about our cancellation policy here.
How can I find a lab location near me?
During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.
You get clinical lab reports & simplified health insights.
Save time & gas, go straight to the lab. Our doctors cover the rest.
Results start landing the next day after your lab visit.*
We don’t sell or share your data. Your time & privacy matter.
US-licensed doctors have your back if things get unclear.
No hidden fees, nice discounts for regular checkups.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
Demo results
Methylated Septin 9 DNANegative
Demo results
NegativePositive
Negative
What this means
Your test came back negative, meaning no methylated Septin 9 DNA was detected in your blood. This is a reassuring result that suggests no signs of colon cancer at this time, though continued regular screening is important for ongoing prevention.
Recommended actions
Maintain a high-fiber diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Stay physically active with at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly
Limit red and processed meats, alcohol, and avoid smoking
Continue regular colon cancer screening as recommended by your doctor
* Regular blood test results (e.g., CBC) typically start arriving the next business day after sample collection. More complex tests, such as hormone panels, may take up to 10–15 business days due to their complexity.
Here’s how easy it is to get blood work done on your terms
Order your testSave a trip to the doctor. Your results will come with clear, friendly explanations.Takes 2 minutes
Book an appointmentVisit any of our 4,000 nearby lab locations to have your samples collected.Book or walk-in
Get resultsReceive a clear, easy-to-digest health report by email & SMS within a few business days.Get answers, fast
90-day money-back guarantee
Lab order in minutes
Save a trip to the doctor
Low prices since 2005
Labs within 2 miles
