FIT Results

What if my FIT result is normal?

A normal result means that blood was not found in your stool. The test should be repeated every two years. ColonCheck will send you another letter and test kit in two years' time.

What if my FIT result is abnormal?

An abnormal result means that blood was found in your stool. ColonCheck will send the results to your health-care provider. Your health-care provider or ColonCheck's nurse navigator will contact you about the appropriate followup care, which may include a colonoscopy.

Note: If you've had a colonoscopy, a kit will be sent five-and-a-half years after the date of the colonoscopy.

For more information about your FIT result, please contact your health-care provider or call ColonCheck toll-free at 1-855-292-2202.

What does it mean if my FIT result is unsatisfactory?

This means that your sample could not be analyzed. There are several reasons, including the absence of a collection date on the laboratory requisition or if the kit has expired. If the result is unsatisfactory, the screening program will send you a new FIT kit to retake the test.

Further testing: Colonoscopy

In most cases, your health-care provider will request a colonoscopy, which is a visual examination of the colon using a fibre optic endoscope. 

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a visual examination of the lining of your colon (large bowel).

The examination is done by inserting a flexible tube called a colonoscope into your anus and slowly advancing it into your rectum and colon.

A colonoscopy is used to:

  • Detect inflamed tissue, ulcers and abnormal growths.
  • Investigate the cause of intestinal symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain and low hemoglobin.
  • Detect colon cancer.
What happens during a colonoscopy?
  • An intravenous line will be inserted in your arm, and small oxygen prongs will be placed in your nose. You will be monitored with a blood pressure cuff on your arm and an oxygen monitor on your finger.
  • Medication to sedate you will be given through the intravenous line, allowing you to become sleepy and relaxed.
  • Once you are sedated, the endoscopist will insert a colonoscope into your anus and slowly guide it along the entire length of your large bowel.
  • Your large intestine will be inflated with air or carbon dioxide to improve visibility. You may experience intermittent pressure, cramping or bloating during the procedure.
  • The colonoscope sends video images of your large bowel's lining to a computer monitor, allowing the endoscopist to carefully examine your colon.
  • The procedure itself lasts 20–60 minutes. However, please plan for your entire visit to take two to four hours, which includes time for preparation and recovery.
What happens after the colonoscopy?
  • You will be moved to the recovery area for 45–60 minutes, or until you are fully awake.
  • Your vital signs (pulse, blood pressure and oxygen level) will be monitored.
  • It is normal to feel cramping and bloating after your colonoscopy, due to the air placed into your colon during the procedure. Once you pass the air, you will feel more comfortable.
  • You will not be able to legally drive for 24 hours following the procedure. Please arrange for someone to drive you home. They will need to come into the endoscopy unit to pick you up.
  • Do not operate machinery, drink alcohol or sign legal documents for 24 hours after the procedure.
What if a growth is noticed during a colonoscopy?

Your endoscopist may take biopsies (small bits of tissue) or remove polyps (abnormal growths that vary in size and shape), which is done through the colonoscope. You will not feel the biopsy or polyp removal.

How will I know the results of my colonoscopy?
  • Copies of all reports will be sent to your health-care provider.
  • If biopsies were taken or polyps were removed, they will be sent to the lab for examination.
  • Results take three to four weeks, depending on where you live.
  • If you require a followup visit with a specialist, their office will notify you.
What if my colonoscopy is normal?

If the results of your colonoscopy are normal, you can return to the screening program for regular screening as long as you remain eligible. ColonCheck will send you a FIT kit five-and-a-half years from the date of your colonoscopy. 

 

Commonly Asked Questions

I have moved/I am planning to move. How can I ensure that my FIT kits and letters are sent to my new address?

Please update your address on file with eHealth:

Can I opt out of participating in ColonCheck?

Yes, you can opt out of the ColonCheck screening program. Please discuss your options with your health-care provider before making a final decision. You can also contact us if you have any additional questions.

 

Additional Resources