Clinical guidance
What to Know about Your FIT Test for Colorectal Cancer
Published May 28, 2024
Your Firefly care team ordered the FIT test for you. A FIT test is a way to screen for colorectal cancer (cancer that starts in the colon or rectum) in your own home without the prep and procedure of a colonoscopy.
Why should I get tested for colorectal cancer?
Because colorectal cancer is very treatable when you find it early. It’s becoming more and more common in younger people so experts now recommend people get tested starting at age 45.
How does the FIT test work?
The FIT test checks your stool (poop) for blood that could be a sign of colorectal cancer. Follow the instructions in the FIT test kit to collect your stool sample and send it to a lab for testing.
How do I get my test result?
Your Firefly care team will get the test result from the lab. They’ll then follow up with you to talk through your result and any needed follow-up.
What happens if I get a positive result?
You’ll need a colonoscopy to know for sure if you have colorectal cancer. (Blood in stool can be from colorectal cancer or pre-cancer growths but can also be from other causes, like ulcers or hemorrhoids.) If you do have colorectal cancer or pre-cancer, there are treatments available.
What if I have more questions?
We’re always here to answer them. Just send us a chat in your Firefly Health app.