Colorectal mail in test

A colorectal mail-in test, also known as a fecal occult blood test (FOBT), is a non-invasive screening test used to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be an indicator of colorectal cancer or polyps. Here's what you need to know:

How it works:

  1. You receive a kit with a set of test cards and a collection device (usually a brush or a swab).
  2. You collect a small sample of stool from a bowel movement using the collection device.
  3. You place the sample on the test card.
  4. The test card detects the presence of blood in the stool, which can be a sign of cancer or polyps.

Types of mail-in tests:

  1. Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): This is the most common type of mail-in test. It detects tiny amounts of blood in the stool that may not be visible to the naked eye.
  2. Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This test is similar to FOBT but uses a different detection method. It's more sensitive and can detect blood in the stool that's not present in the stool for 1-2 days.
  3. Stool DNA Test (sDNA): This test detects genetic changes in the stool that can indicate cancer or polyps.

Benefits:

  1. Convenience: Mail-in tests are easy to use and can be done in the comfort of your own home.
  2. Non-invasive: These tests don't require a colonoscopy or other invasive procedures.
  3. Early detection: Mail-in tests can detect cancer or polyps at an early stage, when they're more treatable.

Limitations:

  1. Accuracy: While mail-in tests are accurate, they're not 100% effective. Some cancers or polyps may not be detected.
  2. False positives: The test may detect blood in the stool that's not related to cancer or polyps.
  3. False negatives: The test may not detect blood in the stool that's present.

Who should get tested:

  1. Average-risk individuals: The American Cancer Society recommends that adults aged 50 and older get screened for colorectal cancer.
  2. High-risk individuals: Those with a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or a history of polyps or cancer may need to start screening earlier or more frequently.

What to do if you test positive:

  1. Follow-up testing: If the test detects blood in the stool, you'll need to follow up with a colonoscopy or other diagnostic tests to determine the cause.
  2. Treatment: If cancer or polyps are detected, treatment will depend on the severity and location of the condition.

Remember to always follow the instructions provided with the test kit and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.