PROVIDERS: COLORECTAL CANCER FIT TEST
FIT Facts
The South Dakota Department of Health (SDDOH) and the Council on Colorectal Cancer (CCC) have undertaken an evidence-based program to increase colorectal cancer screening levels among patients, thereby decreasing mortality. This program is letting providers know about Fecal Immunochemical Testing for colorectal cancer.
Resources for Providers
National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable FOBT Clinician's Reference Resource. http://nccrt.org/wp-content/uploads/FOBTCliniciansReferenceFinal.pdf
This two-page resource is designed to introduce (or reintroduce) clinicians to the value of stool blood testing. It explains stool blood testing in general, makes physicians aware of the differences between a guaiac FOBT and a Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), explains why different kinds of FOBTs are superior and outlines some of the elements that need to go into a quality stool blood testing screening program.
Other useful links:
What is FIT?
FIT is an improved fecal occult blood test that detects with higher sensitivity and specificity when compared to original guaiac tests. And because FIT uses antibodies specific for human hemoglobin, it does not require dietary restrictions or medication limitations. FOBTs are successful because they are simple, inexpensive, convenient, and draw people into the screening process especially when they are concerned about undergoing a colonoscopy. FIT is a screening option that allows patients to procure samples in the comfort of their homes and at their convenience.
When compared to other FOBT methods, FIT has
- Increased patient compliance
- Higher specificity/sensitivity
FIT has high sensitivity for cancer, requires no diet or medication restrictions, and is performed in the privacy of the patient’s home. Particularly, due to improved sensitivity and specificity, SD DOH/CCC recommends the FIT rather than the original guaiac FOBT (gFOBT). It has been shown that patients are very receptive to the following facts:
- Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related mortality.
- Screening can lead to prevention of colorectal cancer by finding and removing pre-cancerous polyps.
- Screening can also help find the disease in early stages and greatly improve the chance of beating the disease.
The test is ideal for your patients ages 45 - 75 who are at average risk for colorectal cancer.