Facts about

iFOBT
What is Colorectal Cancer (CRC)?

Colorectal Cancer is a term used to refer to cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. In most people, colorectal cancers develop slowly over a period of several years. Colorectal cancer usually begins as a noncancerous polyp, which may eventually change into cancer.

What are the risk factors for Colorectal cancer?

  • Age (50+ years of age)
  • People with Infammatory Bowel Disease, Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's Disease
  • A personal or family history of Colorectal Cancer or Colorectal Polyps
  • Lack of regular physical activity
  • Poor Diet - low fiber/high fat
  • Obesity
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Tobacco use
What tests are available for Colorectal Cancer Screening; how often should they be performed for patients 50 or older?

  • Fecal Occult Blood Tests (FOBT) either Immunoassay or Guaiac Type; This colorectal cancer screening is a test to check for blood in the stool. - once per year

  • Sigmoidoscopy ; This is an examination of the rectum and lower colon using a lighted instrument called a sigmoidoscope. Sigmoidoscopy can find precancerous or cancerous growths in the rectum and lower colon. - every 5 years

  • Colonoscopy ; This is an examination of the rectum and entire colon using a lighted instrument called the colonoscope. Colonoscopy can find precancerous or cancerous growths throughout the colon, including the upper part of the colon, where they would be missed by sigmoidoscopy.- every 10 years

  • Double Contrast Barium Enema ; This is a series of x-rays of the entire colon and rectum. The x-rays are taken after the patient is given an enema with a barium solution and air is introduced into the colon.- every 5 years

  • Digital Rectal Exam ; This is often part of a routine physical examination. The healthcare provider inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for abnormal areas. The digital rectal exam allows for an examination of only the lower part of the rectum. - once per year
  • Patients at a higher risk should begin screening at a younger age and at an increased frequency. Please discuss your testing options with your doctor
How does Immunoassay FOB Testing differ from a Guaiac-based test(s)? What are the advantages ?

Conventional Guaiac-based tests used for the detection of fecal occult blood do not provide a high degree of accuracy. Guaiac-based tests are highly affected by a patient's diet, due to the fact that the assay is testing for the presence of peroxidase activity. However, apart from human hemoglobin other substances have similar peroxidase activity, such as meat, certain vegetables, fruit and certain drugs (i.e. Vitamin C). Patients must abstain from consuming any of these items for 3 days prior to taking the Guaiac test. Also three samples from three separate bowel movements must be obtained.

How can I request that I have an Immunoassay Fecal Occult Blood Test run on me?

Ask your physician. If he/she is unfamiliar with Immunoassay Fecal Occult Blood Testing, please click to download and print out the following request letter and give to your physician.

Is the Sample Collection Method that my Doctor sent home with me for the Immunoassay Fecal Occult Blood Test different than the Guaiac Fecal Occult Blood Test Card?

The card test, or the Guaiac based test, requires you to obtain 3 stool samples from 3 seperate bowel movements. You also need to avoid red meat, certain vegetables, and vitamin C prior to obtaining stool samples. The Immunoassay test, or iFOBT, requires only one sample from one bowel movement. You do not have to avoid any foods or vitamins prior to obtaining a stool sample. The collection device for the iFOBT also limits handling of the stool sample.

Should I take the iFOB test if I have hemorrhoids that are bleeding?

You should not obtain a stool sample for iFOB testing if you have any actively bleeding hemorrhoids, however you may take the test after such bleeding ceases.

Can I take the iFOB test if I am menstruating?

You should not obtain a stool sample for iFOB testing if you are menstruating, however you may take the test after such bleeding ceases.

What happens if I open and drop the iFOB sampling device the Doctor sent home with me?

Do not use it. Request a replacement sampling device from your physician.