Colorectal Cancer Screening - FIT Test

No. Several other conditions can lead to a small amount of blood in the stool: Hemorrhoids, an anal fissure, constipation or inflammatory bowel disease can also produce a positive result. According to the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MSSS), out of 1,000 people who undergo screening, 36 have blood in their stool (3.6%). Of these 36 people, four have colorectal cancer, 17 have one or more polyps, and 15 have neither polyps nor cancer.

A Biron healthcare professional will contact you. In some cases, a colonoscopy may be prescribed. This is an invasive examination used to diagnose the presence of polyps or colorectal cancer.

No. Polyps and tumours do not release blood continuously. The lesion may not have bled the day you collected your sample. For this reason, it is recommended to repeat this test every two years (MSSS national medical program).

No. Testing for blood in the stool is a screening test. Only optical or virtual colonoscopy can detect the presence of a polyp, adenoma or cancerous lesion.

No. Along with your home sampling kit, you will also receive a postage-paid return envelope containing instructions on how to return your sample to us. Simply go to a Canada Post office with your return kit to return your sample.

Follow the instructions provided in the kit and return the sample within seven days of collection. Refrigerate the sample until it is deposited at the post office.

No. Colonoscopy can be performed in the public healthcare system or in a private clinic (fees apply). If your FIT result is positive, Biron will present you with both options and can refer you to one of its private partners, if you wish.

If you have a personal or family history, you may be eligible for the FIT, even if you are under 50. Please fill out our online questionnaire to confirm your eligibility and order your at-home sampling kit. If your doctor has prescribed a FIT test, you can make an appointment at Biron to collect your sampling kit, whatever your age.

If you have ever noticed blood in your stool, we recommend that you see a healthcare professional as soon as possible. This symptom may be compatible with colorectal cancer. If needed, Biron offers a medical consultation service. For more information, please call us at 1-855-522-4766.

Yes, about 5% of colorectal cancers are thought to be genetic in origin. The vast majority of cases are believed to be due to poor lifestyle habits. Numerous studies indicate that simple measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer:

• Be physically active.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Limit consumption of red and processed meats.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Choose fibre-rich foods (fruit, vegetables, whole-grain cereals).
• Undergo regular screening for blood in the stool.
• Avoid smoking.

Feel free to fill out the colorectal cancer screening questionnaire to find out if you are eligible for a fecal immunochemical test (FIT).