The Colon FIT self-test allows you to quickly and easily check for hidden blood in a stool sample. Hidden blood, also known as occult blood, can be an early sign of certain disorders in the digestive system, including some types of cancer.
The test gives you an initial indication and can help you monitor your health. However, it is not a complete diagnosis. Only a doctor can confirm what the result means and whether further investigation is necessary.
Always discuss your results with a doctor or healthcare provider. The Colon FIT self-test is a useful tool for home use, but it does not replace medical check-ups or professional medical advice.
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the large intestine (colon) or rectum. It usually develops from small, non-cancerous growths called polyps. Over time, some of these polyps can become malignant.
Colorectal cancer is a major health problem in Belgium. According to recent statistics from the Belgian Cancer Registry, it is one of the most common forms of cancer diagnosed in the country. Early detection is essential to improve outcomes, as colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected at an early stage.
One of the main challenges with colon cancer is that it often has no symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, the disease may have already advanced.
Detecting blood in the stool at an early stage can significantly increase the chances of successful treatment. Early identification allows healthcare providers to perform further diagnostic tests, such as colonoscopy, and intervene before the condition progresses.
The Colon FIT Self-Test is a screening tool primarily suitable for individuals who are not experiencing any noticeable symptoms but wish to proactively monitor their health. It is suitable for individuals:
If your test result is positive, it does not mean you have cancer. It simply indicates the presence of blood, which can be caused by various non-cancerous conditions. However, a positive result is a strong signal to contact your doctor immediately for further evaluation. They will likely recommend a colonoscopy to determine the cause of the bleeding.
In addition to regular screening, a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk. This includes a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, regular physical activity, and limiting alcohol and red meat consumption.
The non-profit organization Stop Darmkanker is committed to the early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer. The organization informs and supports people by providing clear information about risks, symptoms, and preventive measures. They want to make people aware of the importance of regular checkups and healthy choices in order to reduce the number of people who die from colorectal cancer. In addition, vzw Stop Darmkanker offers practical and emotional support to patients and their families and works with doctors, hospitals, and other organizations to reach and help as many people as possible.
Gastroenterologists and abdominal surgeons see too many patients who are diagnosed at a late stage. Early detection is crucial: in the early stages, the chance of recovery is more than 90% and colon cancer is relatively easy to treat. More information about their activities and projects can be found at stopdarmkanker.be.
To collect stool samples: The stool sample must be collected in the stool collector. It is important to use the stool collector in all types of toilets to prevent contamination of the sample with chemicals, so that the sample is not falsified.
To process stool samples: Unscrew the cap from the sample collection tube and then insert the sample collection applicator randomly into at least 3 different places in the stool sample. Do not scoop out the stool sample. Screw the cap onto the sample collection tube and tighten it. Then shake the sample collection tube vigorously to mix the sample and the extraction buffer.
Bring the pouch to room temperature before opening it. Remove the test cassette from the foil pouch and use it as soon as possible. The best results are obtained when the test is performed immediately after opening the foil pouch.
Hold the sample collection tube upright and open the cap on the sample collection tube. Break off the tip. Turn the sample collection tube upside down and transfer 2 full drops of the extracted sample (approximately 80 μL) into the sample opening (S) of the test cassette, then start the timer. Avoid getting air bubbles into the sample hole (S). See the illustration below.
Read the results after 5 minutes. Do not read the results after 10 minutes.
One colored line should appear in the control area (C) and another colored line in the test area (T). *NOTE: The intensity of the color in the test line area (T) varies depending on the concentration of fecal occult blood in the sample. Therefore, any color in the test line area (T) should be considered positive.normal and that there is no potential iron deficiency.
No line appears in the test strip area (T).
Insufficient sample volume or incorrect procedure techniques are the most likely causes of a defective control line. Check the procedure and repeat the test with a new test. If the problem persists, stop using the test kit immediately and contact your local distributor.