The fecal immunochemical test, or FIT, detects tiny traces of blood that cannot be seen. It can identify bleeding from a polyp or colorectal cancer before symptoms appear.
In Québec, FIT is recommended every 2 years for average-risk people aged 50 to 74 who have no symptoms, no personal history of colorectal cancer, polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, and no important family history.
From age 40, a family history of cancer or polyps may lead to earlier FIT or direct colonoscopy. The plan depends on the relative’s age at diagnosis and the number of relatives affected.
Visible blood, black stool, a persistent change in bowel habits, unexplained anemia, weight loss or abdominal pain requires diagnostic assessment rather than routine screening.
Previous cancer, polyps, inflammatory colitis or a genetic syndrome requires a personalized surveillance program, often involving periodic colonoscopy.
A kit is provided after prescription or eligibility assessment. At home, use the sampling stick to collect a small amount of stool; do not fill the tube or mix the sample with urine or toilet water.
Follow the instruction sheet exactly, record the date and return the sample promptly to the designated site. Delayed or improper collection can make the sample unsuitable for analysis.
A negative result means an abnormal amount of blood was not detected. It does not completely rule out cancer, so FIT should be repeated every 2 years while you remain eligible.
A positive FIT is not a cancer diagnosis. About 50 of every 1,000 screened people have an abnormal result; colonoscopy is then recommended to identify the source and remove polyps if present.
When repeated regularly, FIT lowers the risk of developing or dying from colorectal cancer. It is simple, non-invasive and usually requires no special diet or bowel preparation.
FIT can be falsely positive because of another source of bleeding, or rarely falsely negative. New symptoms between tests always require medical assessment.
Colonoscopy examines the colon and can remove polyps or obtain a biopsy. It requires laxative preparation and has uncommon risks such as bleeding or perforation.
The next screening date depends on the quality and findings of the colonoscopy. Always ask when the next FIT or colonoscopy is due.
At Bina Clinic, we can assess risk, prescribe FIT when appropriate and follow an abnormal result. A simple test becomes effective prevention only when it is repeated on schedule and followed properly.
This article provides general information and does not replace a personalized medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment.
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