WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR DNA

Cologuard® does not keep your DNA

Real talk about how Cologuard only checks for cancer related markers, doesn’t keep your DNA, and disposes your sample after testing.
Exact Sciences | May 2026
Cologuard box placed beside a yellow tree.

We get it. These days, protection is everything. Doorbell cameras. Password managers. Credit monitoring. Even that little sticker over your laptop camera. So, of course, you want to protect your DNA. Cologuard doesn’t want your DNA. Truly.


Start with Cologuard


The Cologuard test looks at a precise biomarker panel to detect distinct DNA markers (signs of DNA alteration) and tiny blood traces, focusing on key changes linked to colon cancer. Once we’ve checked those markers, our interest ends there.1 Your DNA stays yours. We just took a peek to help detect colon cancer, then we’re done, and we dispose of it after the test following strict lab protocols.

Watch this 60 second expert explanation.

We're here to answer your questions on all things colon cancer.

It does not:

  • Perform any genetic test
  • Does not test for ancestry
  • Does not store or use your DNA beyond that
  • Does not identify you beyond your test

Exact Sciences Laboratories is licensed with the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and is accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP).

Click here to see if Cologuard is right for you.

Safe.
Noninvasive.
FDA-approved.