What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Abnormal growths, called polyps, form in the colon or rectum. Over time, some polyps may turn into cancer. Screening tests aid in the early detection of colorectal cancer, providing information for when to seek treatment.

What are the symptoms? 

Symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

• Change in bowl habits.
• Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement).
• Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way.
• Abdominal pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away.
• Unknown weight loss

Source: National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion; Division of Cancer Prevention and Control

What are the risk factors?

The risk of colorectal cancer increases as you get older. Risk factors include:
•    Inflammatory bowel disease
•    Family history of colorectal cancer
•    Genetic syndrome
•    Lack of physical exercise
•    Diet that is low in fruit and vegetables
•    Low fiber and high fat diet
•    Diet that is high in processed meats
•    Overweight and obesity
•    Alcohol consumption
•    Smoking or tobacco use

What can I do to reduce my risk?

The most effective way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is to get screened early. The American Cancer Society recommends regular colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45 for people at average risk.

What should I know about screening?

A screening test is used to detect a disease in individuals who do not show any symptoms. A screening test can detect precancerous polyps, allowing for early treatment and removal of these precancerous growths before they turn into cancer. 

What are the test options for colorectal cancer screening?

Colorectal cancer screening is crucial for early detection and treatment. There are two main groups for colorectal cancer screening tests:

• Stool-based tests – these tests look at the stool (feces) for possible signs of colorectal cancer or polyps. There are over-the-counter tests that can be done at home, which makes it easier and convenient for regular screening. These tests are less invasive but need to be done regularly. However, if the result from these tests is positive (abnormal), a colonoscopy is needed to confirm if you have cancer. 
  
  • Tests include guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT), Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), FIT-DNA test
• Visual (structural) exams – these tests look at the inside of the colon and rectum for abnormal areas that may be cancer or polyps. These tests are done less often than stool-based tests but require pre-testing preparation.
  • Tests include Colonoscopy, CT colonography, sigmoidoscopy

Source: Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests | Sigmoidoscopy & Colonoscopy | American Cancer Society

How do FIT tests work?

FIT screening tests look for occult (hidden) blood in stool and help detect early signs of cancerous or pre-cancerous growths in the colon. Regular screening and treatment can help reduce risks of serious adverse effects of colorectal cancer on a person’s overall health.

About the Results and Interpreting Results

• Positive: Two red lines appear. One red line should be in the control region I and another red line should be in the test line region (T).
• Negative: One red line appears in the control line region I. No line appears in the test line region (T).
• Invalid: If no lines appear or if the control line doesn’t appear, the test results are not valid. Retesting should be performed. 

Consult with your healthcare provider for follow-up and advice.

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