What is a fecal occult blood test (FOBT)?
• A FOBT tests for blood in your stool. A sample of your stool is placed on a test card and sent to the lab where it is checked for blood. Blood may be a sign of polyps or colorectal cancer. The FOBT can be done at home. Completing this test and any follow-up test may find polyps or colorectal cancer at and early stages when treatment is the most effective.
Cancer Care Ontario: Colorectal Screening Program We are pleased to announce that Quinte Health Care has received funding for additional colonoscopies as part of Ontario’s new colorectal cancer screening program. The colorectal cancer screening program aims to save lives by having more people 50 years of age and older screened for colorectal cancer. Those who are at increased risk because of a family history (one or more first degree relatives with colorectal cancer) or with a positive Fecal Occult Blood test (FOBT) test should receive a colonoscopy. Remember, only patients who have one or more first degree relatives with a family history of colorectal cancer or those with a positive FOBT are eligible for this program. If you have any questions or comments, can visit www.cancercareontario.ca send an email to colorectalcancerscreening@cancercare.on.ca or call 1-866-662-9233.
A test that checks for hidden blood in the stool. At home, using a small stick from a test kit, you place a small amount of your stool, from three different bowel movements three days in a row, on test cards. You return the cards to your doctor s office or a lab, where they re checked for blood. This test is recommended yearly. If blood is found, you will need a follow-up colonoscopy. Return to Questions on Every Woman Matters Index Page What is a Flexible Sigmoidoscopy? Before this test, you use a strong laxative and/or enema to clean out the colon. Flexible sigmoidoscopy is conducted at the doctor s office, clinic, or hospital. The doctor uses a narrow, flexible, lighted tube to look at the inside of the rectum and the lower portion of the colon. During the exam, the doctor may remove some polyps (abnormal growths) and collect samples of tissue or cells for more testing. This test is recommended every 5 years. If polyps are found, you will need a follow-up colonoscopy. Having both of
