New study shows annual, noninvasive stool test effective for colon cancer screening viable alternative to Colonoscopy

New study shows annual, noninvasive stool test effective for colon cancer screening viable alternative to Colonoscopy

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 A new study by Indiana University (IU) School of Medicine and the Regenstrief Institute provides the strongest evidence to date to support recommendations that average risk patients can safely opt for an annual, easy-to-use home stool test instead of a screening colonoscopy.

     The researchers reviewed and analyzed the findings of 31 studies with a total of 120,255 participants. Each individual had a FIT (short for fecal immunochemical test), which identifies hidden blood in stool. FIT results were compared to the finding of a subsequent screening colonoscopy and were found to have high detection rates for colorectal cancer. The study results are published online in advance of print in the March 6, 2019 issue of Annals of Internal Medicine.

                   "Our analysis finds that FIT is a good 'pre-screening' test for average-risk, asymptomatic adults, saving them hassle and the US healthcare system costs," said Thomas Imperiale, MD, the lead author, a gastroenterologist with IU School of Medicine and a research scientist with the Regenstrief Institute. "If annual FIT results remain negative, FIT buys you time until colonoscopy may be required, and it could be the case that a colonoscopy for screening may never be necessary or required."

                Imperiale said the research indicates a similar approach could be safely deployed in the US and elsewhere, but only if there is a system to ensure annual testing. "We need a system that is population-based rather than the current opportunistic one—with better laboratory-physician coordination, dedicated follow-up, and assurance that colonoscopy is performed if FIT results are positive," he said. "The power of FIT is in its repeat application and in many cases, repeatedly negative results."