LGBTQ+ Inclusive Care
Receive inclusive LGBTQ+ medical care at Main Line Health in a compassionate and welcoming space at locations in the Philadelphia region.
Occult Blood Test
Occult blood test screens for colorectal cancer
An occult or "hidden" blood test is a screening test for colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. The word colorectal refers to the colon or large intestine, and the rectum, the end of the digestive system. The specimen is a small sample of feces that is smeared onto a card and can be taken in the doctor's office or at home. The specimen on the card is then chemically tested for the presence of blood. Certain foods and medications, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, should be avoided before taking an occult blood test.
A positive fecal occult blood result may indicate bleeding in the colon or rectum and shows increased risk of colorectal cancer. Other tests also used for colorectal cancer screening are barium enema, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy and digital rectal examination.
The incidence of colorectal cancer in men and women is about equal. People at higher risk of developing the disease include:
- People over the age of 50
- People who have a family history of colorectal cancer
- People who have previously had colorectal cancer
Most doctors recommend fecal occult blood screening every year for everyone over 50. Early detection of colorectal cancer greatly improves the odds of successful treatment.
Addiction
Expert-led rehab with personalized plans for effective addiction treatment and recovery.
Anesthesiology
Main Line Health’s anesthesiologists play a critical role in your total care before, during and after surgery.
General Surgery
General surgeons are doctors who are board certified as specialists in many different types of surgery. At Main Line Health, our general surgeons are an important part of your care team.
Lung and Thoracic
Main Line Health experts use the latest technology to diagnose and treat all types of conditions affecting the chest, lungs and esophagus.
Stroke and Neurointervention
Main Line Health is one of few community health systems offering state-of-the-art neurointervention care. Through our collaboration with the Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, our Neurointervention Program is an accredited thrombectomy-capable stoke center.
Audiology
Explore audiology services at Main Line Health, including hearing assessments, hearing aids and personalized solutions for a variety of auditory conditions.
Primary Care
Experience comprehensive and compassionate primary care and family medicine services at Main Line Health, delivering advanced care for your overall well-being.