Colox®: colorectal cancer screening with a simple blood test

A simple early-screening option, with 90% reimbursement for patients insured with Helsana PRIMEO supplementary insurance

Early detection – a benefit for everyone

Colox® enables colorectal cancer screening using a simple blood sample.
Patients with Helsana PRIMEO supplementary insurance may benefit from 90% reimbursement of the Colox® test.

Colorectal cancer in Switzerland

  • The 3rd most common cancer¹

  • The 2nd leading cause of cancer-related death¹

  • The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age

  • The Swiss Cancer League recommends colorectal cancer screening for men and women from the age of 50²

In Switzerland, colorectal cancer remains an important cause of mortality. Early detection can, however, significantly improve the chances of survival.

Early detection improves the chances of survival

When colorectal cancer is detected at an early stage, treatment outcomes and survival rates are generally better.

Regular screening is therefore recommended from the age of 50.

Colox® for colorectal cancer detection

Colox® is a screening test performed using a simple blood sample.

  • Simple for the patient

  • Developed and clinically validated in Switzerland³

  • Molecular test measuring the immune system response

  • Can detect certain colorectal cancers

  • Can also detect adenomatous polyps, which are considered precancerous lesions

Colox® test performance

The performance of Colox® was validated in a multicentre clinical study involving 782 participants in Switzerland.³

Validated data showed:

  • Specificity: 92%

  • Sensitivity for colorectal cancer: 78%

  • Sensitivity for adenomatous polyps > 1 cm: 52%

Together against colorectal cancer

From the age of 50, regular screening is recommended.

Whatever method is chosen, the best screening test is the one that is actually completed.

Colox®

  • Performed through a blood draw at your doctor’s practice or in a laboratory

  • No stool sample required

  • Not reimbursed by basic health insurance

  • Patients with Helsana PRIMEO supplementary insurance may receive 90% reimbursement

Indicative frequency: every 2 years

Stool test

  • Test kit available from your doctor or pharmacy

  • Sample collected at home

  • Sample sent by post for analysis

Indicative frequency: every 2 years

Colonoscopy

  • Performed using an endoscopic instrument

  • Carried out by a gastroenterologist in a hospital or medical practice

  • Requires specific bowel preparation

Indicative frequency: every 10 years

Colorectal cancer prevention

A healthy lifestyle combined with regular screening contributes to the prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer.

Ask your doctor which screening method is most appropriate for your situation and whether Colox® may be suitable for you.

How can I be tested with Colox®?

Speak to your doctor or contact your laboratory to find out whether Colox® is appropriate for your situation.

The test is carried out using a simple blood sample.