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Contents
  • Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard
  • Noninvasive Testing Options
  • Emerging Technologies

What Are the Best Tests for Colorectal Cancer Screening?

What Are the Best Tests for Colorectal Cancer Screening?

Test Choices

Choosing the right test for colorectal cancer screening can make all the difference in early detection and treatment.
Contents
  • Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard
  • Noninvasive Testing Options
  • Emerging Technologies

Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard

Colonoscopy is considered the most comprehensive screening test for colorectal cancer. It allows doctors to view the entire colon and remove polyps in one procedure. This test is typically recommended every 10 years for those at average risk.

Noninvasive Testing Options

For those who prefer noninvasive options, fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) and multitarget stool DNA tests are available. These tests can be done at home and are a good alternative if you can't or don't want to undergo colonoscopy. However, a positive result usually means a follow-up colonoscopy is needed.
Colorectal cancer screening includes various tests like colonoscopy, FIT, and stool DNA tests which help in early detection and treatment of colorectal cancer.

Emerging Technologies

New technologies like virtual colonoscopy and capsule colonoscopy are being explored. These tests offer less invasive ways to screen but may require traditional colonoscopy for follow-up if abnormalities are found. As these technologies develop, they might provide additional options for screening.

FAQs

What is the best test for screening?

Colonoscopy is the most comprehensive screening test.

Are there noninvasive test options?

Yes, options include FIT and multitarget stool DNA tests.

What if a noninvasive test is positive?

A follow-up colonoscopy is usually needed.

What is virtual colonoscopy?

A less invasive imaging test for screening.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right test depends on your preferences and risk factors.
Discuss with Doctronic which colorectal cancer screening test suits you best.
Additional References
  1. Hol L, et al. Screening for colorectal cancer: randomised trial comparing guaiac-based and immunochemical faecal occult blood testing and flexible sigmoidoscopy. Gut 2010; 59:62.
  2. Doubeni CA, et al. Time to Diagnostic Testing After a Positive Colorectal Cancer Screening Test. JAMA 2017; 318:483.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.