The Colonox FIT test is the same fecal immunochemical test, also known as immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOB), that healthcare providers use to screen for signs of gastrointestinal disorders. It uses antibodies to measure hemoglobin proteins in the stool, identifying hidden or unseen blood.
The test is simple to use and easy to read. Start by collecting a small sample of fecal material in the provided tube and shake the tube vigorously to mix the sample with the solution. Then, squeeze a few drops of the solution into the test well and wait for the results. A positive test indicates the presence of blood.
What does that mean? Blood in your stool is abnormal and indicates bleeding in your digestive tract. Bleeding is often a sign of disease, such as colitis, diverticulosis, anemia, hemorrhoids, polyps, colorectal cancer, or other conditions that may need treatment.
Healthcare providers commonly use the FIT test to help diagnose these conditions. However, the American College of Gastroenterology also recommends it as one of the primary tools for colorectal cancer screening.
The College recommends yearly FIT tests for adults aged 45 to 75 to reduce pre-cancerous growths and colorectal cancer. Those with a family history of colon cancer or conditions that increase the risk of cancer, such as colitis, may need more regular screening.
It’s essential to note that while the Colonox FIT may be a helpful colon cancer home test kit, it only identifies unseen or hidden blood in your stool. The test doesn’t diagnose any health conditions but can help you track your digestive health. Discuss your test results and any symptoms with your provider for further testing.