Who Should Consider FIT?
The American Cancer Society recommends regular colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45, with earlier screenings for those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors. FIT is an excellent at-home option for (2):
- Adults aged 45 and over, especially those with average risk.
- Individuals who may feel uneasy about undergoing a colonoscopy.
- People looking for a convenient, accessible first-line screening tool.
While FIT is highly effective, it’s important to note that it doesn’t replace a colonoscopy for high-risk individuals or those who receive a positive result on their FIT test. Think of it as a stepping stone toward better colorectal health.
Read: 10 Important Health Screenings You Need in Your 40s
The Benefits of At-Home Screening Options
The convenience of an at-home test like FIT cannot be overstated. Here’s why it’s making waves (3):
- Accessible and Comfortable: No need for hospital visits or bowel prep discomfort. FIT offers a hassle-free way to start the screening process.
- Cost-Effective: FIT tends to be more affordable than a colonoscopy, making it a practical option for those without full insurance coverage.
- Life-Saving Potential: By catching the disease early, FIT empowers individuals to seek medical intervention when it’s most effective and life-saving.
These benefits are especially important for people who might otherwise avoid or delay screening, placing them at greater risk of late-stage diagnosis. Increasing screening rates through accessible options like FIT can make a real impact on colorectal cancer outcomes.
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Other Types of Colon Cancer Screenings in Integrative Medicine
While FIT is a popular and effective at-home screening option, there are other tests available through the practice of integrative medicine. These include:
Guaiac fecal occult blood test (gFOBT)
Like FIT, gFOBT screening for blood in the stool can be an early indication of colorectal cancer or precancerous growths. gFOBT detects heme, a component of the blood protein hemoglobin (4). But because gFOBT can also detect heme in some foods (like red meat), you need to avoid certain foods prior to the test.
Stool DNA Test
This test is similar to FIT but also looks for abnormal DNA changes in cells shed in the stool. It can be more accurate than FOBT and may detect other types of cancer besides colon cancer.
Gut Health Analysis
Analyze biomarkers in stool and the microbiome to evaluate gut health and assess risk for colorectal cancer. This integrative approach takes into account both genetic and environmental factors that contribute to the development of colon cancer.
Colonoscopy
As mentioned before, a colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. It involves a doctor using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon and rectum for abnormalities. While it may not be as convenient or comfortable as FIT, it has the potential to detect polyps or early-stage cancer that may be missed by other screenings.
Read: From Screen Time to Chemicals—The Silent Rise of Cancer in Millennials
Colonoscopy vs. FIT: Which is Right for You?
While colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, FIT has broadened the scope for preventative care, encouraging more people to get screened. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which option is best for you:
| Procedure Type | Effectiveness | Recommended Frequency | Ideal for | |
| Colonoscopy | Minimally invasive, in-clinic procedure | Gold standard; detects most polyps & cancers | Every 10 years if results are normal | High-risk individuals or follow-up for abnormal FIT results |
| FIT | Non-invasive, at-home stool test | High for detecting hidden blood; less useful for polyps | Annually | Average-risk individuals |
If you’re unsure which option is right for you, discuss your health history and preferences with your integrative doctor.
Take Control of Your Colorectal Health Today
With colorectal cancer being both preventable and treatable when detected early, there’s no reason to put off screening. Thanks to advancements in at-home testing like FIT, taking that first step has never been easier.
We’re here to guide you—explore our patient portal and get started now.
Protect your health by starting with a simple at-home test. If you’re over 45 or at higher risk, speak with our integrative team about incorporating colon cancer screening into your regular health routine.
Remember, when it comes to colorectal health, early detection is everything. Don’t wait—your health is worth it.
