Doubling up on stool-based tests catches more colorectal cancers: study

A two-test strategy has sensitivity of almost 100% compared to 84% for a single test, research shows.
HealthDay News

Carrying out two stool-based tests improves sensitivity and cuts the number of missed colorectal cancers, according to a UK study. 

Researchers compared the diagnostic performance of a single faecal immunochemical test (FIT) versus a double FIT in symptomatic patients.

A FIT is similar to a FOBT except a FIT doesn’t require a restricted diet and is more specific to finding blood coming from the lower gastrointestinal tract.

The analysis included two sequential prospective patient cohorts referred from primary care, according to the study the British Journal of Surgery.