Covered 100% without advance costs, this simple, fast and painless immunological test is to be performed at home. Easier to use and even more efficient than the Hemoccult test, it will facilitate participation in colorectal cancer screening, which is still very insufficient.
This immunological test is more practical to use, because it only requires one stool sample compared to six previously. As this new test has a higher sensitivity, it allows a better detection of cancers and precancerous lesions. And, through the use of antibodies, it cannot be made positive by animal hemoglobin from food. Automated reading also guarantees better reliability.
This immunological test will be offered gradually, from April 14, to the 16 million people affected by the colorectal cancer screening program. This simplification of the test should make it easier to reach the 45% participation rate in screening knowing that in 2013-2014, only 29.8% of persons concernedperformed the test.
Colorectal cancer, a public health issue
Each year colorectal cancer affects more than 42,000 new people in France. 23,200 men and 18,900 women over 50. It is the 3rd most common cancer, but also the 2nd deadliest cancer, with more than 17,500 deaths per year.
Colorectal cancer remains a very deadly cancer while there is simple screening that can save lives, but for which participation is still too low. Early detection can identify the disease at an early stage, or even prevent cancer by detecting polyps or adenomas, before they degenerate into cancerous lesions. The earlier a colorectal cancer is detected, the less intensive the treatments, and the greater the chances of a cure.
And you, will the arrival of this new, simpler test encourage you to be tested ? Talk about it on the forum.
Read also :
Screening for colorectal cancer: the benefits of immunoassay
Colorectal cancer: to limit the risks, eat legumes
Infographic: finding your way around cancer screening
