Screening Program for Colorectal Cancer

The Screening Program for Colorectal Cancer provides an easy-to-use test kit called a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) to Saskatchewan residents who:

• Are between the ages of 50 and 74.
• Have a valid Saskatchewan Health Services card.
• Have not been previously diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month, and the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency (SCA) is reminding people to Cover Your Butt in this year’s promotional screening campaign. This cheeky play on words is a call to action for residents aged 50-74 to complete the FIT (fecal immunochemical test) kit every two years. It could save your life. 

The Cancer Agency’s Screening Program for Colorectal Cancer mails FIT kits to eligible Saskatchewan residents between the ages of 50-74, who have not been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and have not had a recent colonoscopy. The FIT is a quick and easy test that can be done in the comfort and privacy of your own bathroom. 

Colorectal cancer is the second most diagnosed form of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Saskatchewan. It often develops with few, if any, early warning symptoms. Approximately 90 per cent of colorectal cancers can be prevented or successfully treated if caught early. That’s why it’s so crucial that we raise awareness about the importance of regular screening. 

Why is Screening for Colorectal Cancer Important

Colorectal cancer, also known as colon or bowel cancer, is the second most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in men and women. It is also the second leading cause of cancer death in Saskatchewan.

It often develops with few, if any, early warning symptoms.

Approximately 90 per cent of colorectal cancers can be prevented or successfully treated if caught early.

About the FIT 

Taking the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) every two years will help find colorectal cancer early, when treatment is most effective. The FIT can find blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye.

How do I receive my test kit?

The Screening Program for Colorectal Cancer will mail invitation letters and home-based test kits to eligible participants, based on information provided by eHealth Saskatchewan. 

What do I do after I complete the test?

After you complete the test, you can drop off the sample at a medical laboratory or an indoor Canada Post retail outlet in the supplied postage-paid envelope. Please do not leave it in an outdoor mailbox. The test is time and temperature sensitive and should be dropped off as soon as possible. 

What happens after the test?

The Roy Romanow Provincial Laboratory will analyze your test and forward the results to the screening program. The screening program will send the results to you and your healthcare provider or medical clinic.

What if I do not have a health-care provider?

You can still participate in the screening program if you do not have a healthcare provider. We encourage you to check the Saskatchewan Health Authority website to find a clinic directory for your area. In some communities, medical clinics may serve as the health care provider.