Early detection of colon cancer is crucial. For individuals aged 45-75 with no increased risk factors, a yearly Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is recommended. This simple test checks for hidden blood in your stool, an early indicator of potential colon cancer or precancerous polyps.

Important to know:

• False positives: Conditions like menstruation, hemorrhoids, or recent colon procedures can cause false positive results. If you have these conditions, wait until bleeding stops before taking the test.
• Follow-up: A positive FIT result requires further evaluation by a healthcare provider, likely a colonoscopy.
• Limitations: FIT isn’t a replacement for a colonoscopy and can produce false positive or negative results.
• Individualized screening: People over 75 or with increased risk factors (family history, inflammatory bowel disease, etc.) should consult their doctor for personalized screening recommendations.

Remember: Regular screening and early detection are key to preventing colon cancer.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and doesn’t replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for personalized guidance.

The FIT test is designed for individuals aged 45 and older to screen for potential colon cancer. It detects hidden blood in your stool, an early indicator of possible precancerous polyps or cancer.
A positive FIT result is not a diagnosis but warrants further evaluation by a healthcare provider. A colonoscopy is typically recommended to determine the cause of the blood.

Colon cancer often develops gradually from non-cancerous polyps. These polyps may not cause symptoms, making regular screenings crucial for early detection.

Watch for these warning signs:

Persistent changes in bowel habits
Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
Consistent abdominal pain or cramps
Unexplained weight loss
Feeling of incomplete bowel movements
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor promptly. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

No preparation needed. You can take the test without fasting, dietary changes, or medication adjustments. However, please postpone testing if you are experiencing:

Bleeding from hemorrhoids
Menstruation
Blood in your urine
Recent gastrointestinal surgery
A recent diverticulitis flare-up

Your FIT results will indicate whether blood was detected in your stool. A positive result doesn’t confirm colon cancer but requires follow-up with your doctor for further testing, such as a colonoscopy.

A positive FIT test indicates the presence of blood in your stool and warrants immediate follow-up with your healthcare provider. A colonoscopy is typically recommended to determine the source of the bleeding.

Important Considerations:

While the Affordable Care Act mandates coverage for colorectal cancer screenings, follow-up colonoscopies might incur out-of-pocket costs. Contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage, including co-pays and deductibles. Choosing an in-network healthcare provider can help minimize costs.

Always discuss your test results with your doctor for personalized guidance.

Guaiac-based FOBT (gFOBT): Less sensitive and can be affected by diet and certain medications.  
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): More sensitive and less affected by diet. Our at-home FIT test is a convenient option.  
Stool DNA Test: This test looks for abnormal DNA in stool samples. While convenient, it tends to have a higher rate of false positives compared to FIT.  

Important to note: None of these tests replace a colonoscopy, which is the gold standard for detecting and removing polyps.  

If you’re unsure which screening option is best for you, consult with your healthcare provider. They can recommend the most suitable test based on your age, risk factors, and medical history.

Remember, early detection is key to successful colon cancer treatment