Stay One Step Ahead of Health Risks
Protect Your Health: Get Screened for Colon Cancer Today
Colon cancer starts in the large intestine (the colon). It often begins as a small polyp that grows slowly over time. Regular screening can help find these polyps early, before they turn into cancer. Colon cancer is common, but with regular screening, it can often be prevented.
FIND A DOCTORHave questions about the right screening option for you or your covered benefits?
Call us today at 1-888-234-8266 (TTY: 711), Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Central Time. We’re here to help!
Why Screening Is Important
Colon cancer usually starts with small polyps.
Polyps have no symptoms, so you can feel healthy and still have them.
Screening finds these polyps early so they can be removed.
Early detection leads to easier treatment and better outcomes.
Understanding Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States, and it affects both men and women. People aged 45 and older are at a higher risk, so regular screenings are recommended starting at age 45.
- Risk Levels: About 1 in 24 men and 1 in 25 women are at risk of developing colon cancer during their lifetime.
- Survival Rates: If colon cancer is found early, about 90% of people diagnosed can survive for at least five years after their diagnosis.
Common Screening Options
At‑Home Test: A simple kit you use at home. You send it to a lab, and they check for hidden blood in your stool. It is fast, simple, and non-invasive.
Colonoscopy: Your healthcare provider can check your colon using a small camera. This test can find and remove polyps during the same visit.
Your healthcare provider can help you decide the option that’s best for you.
Know the Warning Signs
Even if you feel healthy, watch for:
- Blood in your stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Stomach pain that doesn’t go away
- Ongoing changes in bathroom habits
- Feeling tired all the time
Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you notice any of these signs. Taking care of your health helps you stay active, independent, and able to enjoy what matters most.
If you support a parent, partner, or older adult, screening helps them stay independent and healthy. Early detection can prevent health issues that may lead to hospital stays or long‑term care needs.
Blue Advantage Rewards & Wellness Program
The Blue Advantage Rewards & Wellness Program gives you access to our online portal with programs and trackers that can help guide you in your wellness journey. Explore the programs below to help you boost your well-being and take charge of your health!
Screenings, immunizations, and lifestyle changes can keep your health in great shape for the long haul. Learn how with the Preventive Health - Reducing Your Risks program.
Get Rewarded for Taking Care of Your Health
Enroll in the Blue Advantage® Rewards & Wellness Program and receive a $15 Walmart gift card. You can also receive a $35 Walmart gift card when you complete your colon cancer screening.
Not a member of the Blue Advantage Rewards & Wellness Program?
Enroll now and get access to the online portal with a variety of health and wellness tools plus earn rewards for completing healthy activities like getting your annual wellness visit.
enroll nowAll rewards will be mailed in the form of a Walmart gift card, which may be used in-store or online at Walmart.com. Gift card may NOT be used for Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, or Lottery. After completing an activity, it may take approximately 8-12 weeks to receive the gift card.
Enrollment reward is only for new reward program enrollees. Blackhawk Network is an independent company providing rewards (Walmart gift cards) to Blue Advantage members on behalf of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama.
Blue Advantage is a PPO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Blue Advantage (PPO) depends on contract renewal.
Information contained in this communication is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your healthcare needs.
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