Dr. Holcombe on the Utility of Stool DNA Test for Colon Cancer

Randall F. Holcombe, MD, professor, Chief Medical Officer, Cancer, Mount Sinai Health System, discusses key takeaways for a practicing oncologist regarding the stool DNA test for colon cancer.

A colonoscopy provides more information than the stool DNA test, Holcombe says, and allows for the visualization and removal of polyps. The stool DNA test is simple and may prompt patients who are reluctant to undergo colonoscopy to proceed with the exam.

The greatest relevance for the stool DNA test, Holcombe says, is most likely for a gastroenterologist or practicing care physician. Oncologists do interact with patients’ families, however, so they are able to encourage members to get screened for colon cancer.