cancer care ontario

New colon cancer screening test

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As of June 24th, 2019, Ontario has replaced the previous guaic fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) with the fecal immunochemical test (FIT). It is a safe and painless test that checks your stool (poop) for tiny drops of blood, which can be caused by colorectal cancer or some pre-cancerous polyps (growths in the colon or rectum that can turn into cancer over time). You can do this test at home and it only takes a few minutes. Unlike the previous gFOBT poop test, you do not have to change your diet or stop taking medication to do the test. It is also a single poop sample which is more convenient.

FIT is offered to all average risk patients age 50-74 and is typically done every 2 years. If you’re due for your colon cancer screening (or unsure), call our office and the kit can be ordered if due. Please ensure your mailing address on file is up to date as the FIT package will be mailed directly to your home.

To find out more about colon cancer screening and FIT, please visit Cancer Care Ontario.