The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a non-invasive test for screening colon cancer recommended by the American Cancer Society guidelines. It detects hidden blood in the stool in order to identify polyps (pre-cancerous growths) in the colon. FIT detects blood loss from the lower intestines, which occurs when cancer tissue or polyps bleed.

The FIT has a greater level of specificity for colon cancer screening than other types of stool tests. It is effective because it can detect a specific type of blood related to signs of colon cancer. Other types of blood found in the digestive system do not result in a positive FIT.

How to prepare for a FIT

The FIT does not require diet or medicinal restrictions. However, you should not perform the test if you have active bleeding from hemorrhoids or during a menstrual period. In addition, avoid using any toilet cleaners or deodorizers before performing the test. This may decrease the sensitivity of the test.

How is the test done?

Patients receive a FIT kit either in person or by mail from the health care facility. The sample must be collected according to the instructions, by using the probe and the collection bottle found in the kit. Once completed, return the sample and information specified on the kit to the lab. The test results are sent by mail or by way of an online patient service.

What do the results mean?

Patients who perform FIT may receive a negative (normal) or a positive (abnormal) result.

Normal or Negative results:

A normal test result means that blood was not found in your stool. However, a negative result does not always mean that colon polyps or colorectal cancer is not present. The test can miss polyps and some cancers. Depending on your age and risk for colorectal cancer, your doctor may recommend follow-up tests or regular screening.

Abnormal or Positive Results

An abnormal test result means that blood was found in your stool. This may be caused by a colon polyp or a pre-cancerous polyp. A positive test may also indicate an early stage colorectal cancer. However, the presence of blood in the stool may result from other issues such as inflammation or hemorrhoids. Therefore, patients with a positive test result normally undergo a colonoscopy in order to further investigate the source of blood in the stool.

When to use FIT

Men and women who are 50 years and older, or anyone at an average risk for developing colorectal cancer, should use the Fecal immunochemical test (FIT). There are no risks involved in using the test.

Get FIT. Contact Polymedco CDP, LLC

Colon cancer is preventable if detected early. Don't wait for symptoms to occur because often there are no symptoms. Get the FIT test - a simple and affordable, at home screening kit. Contact Polymedco CDP, LLC at 888 638 7757 or email at tpucci@polymedco.com.