Colorectal Cancer Screening or “FIT test”
What is it?
The FIT test (or fecal immunochemical test) checks for tiny amounts of blood in your stool that can only be seen with special equipment. In some cases, this can be an early sign of colon cancer. It is performed once every two years.
Who is it for?
The recommendations depend on your level of risk for developing colorectal cancer:
If you have no family history of colorectal cancer (average risk for developing colorectal cancer:
- If you are 50 to 74 years old → FIT test recommended every 2 years
If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you are at increased risk for developing colorectal cancer.
- Recommendations will depend on your specific family history
- Please talk to your local health care provider to see if a FIT test or a screening colonoscopy is best for you
The test is not appropriate for anyone with active symptoms of colon cancer.
Where is it offered?
The FIT test kit is offered through the Chishaayiyuu department at your local CMC. It is a simple test with instructions that you do yourself in your home.
How does it work?
The FIT test is quick and easy to do in your bathroom.
- When you pass a stool, you will take a tiny sample of your stool using the tools provided by your health care professional.
- You then place the stool sample in the sterile container included in the kit.
- You bring the container to your CMC, who will send it to the lab in Sherbrooke.
- The CMC will follow up on your results once it is processed.
- If your results are normal: It is recommended that you redo this test in two years.
- If your results are abnormal: Your CMC will contact you for further tests to rule out colorectal cancer.
How long does it last?
The test itself only takes a few minutes to do. The test results are ready in a few weeks.
How can I get this service?
If you are eligible, you can get a FIT test kit from your Chishaayiyuu healthcare provider.
Where can I learn more?
Talk with your Chishaayiyuu healthcare provider for more information.
