U.S. Multi-Society Task Force Statement on Fecal Immunochemical Testing for Colorectal Cancer Screening

A one-time fecal immunochemical test is recommended over a guaiac-based FOBT owing to higher sensitivity and adherence.

Sponsoring Organization: U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer

Target Audience: Gastroenterologists, primary care clinicians

Background and Objective

The fecal occult blood test (FOBT) using guaiac reduces colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and death when used in a screening program. The newer fecal immunochemical test (FIT) for human hemoglobin is now widely available. A task force representing three U.S. gastroenterology societies reviewed published evidence on the effectiveness of the FIT for CRC screening and presented consensus recommendations.

Key Recommendations

A one-time FIT is approximately 80% sensitive for detecting CRC and 20%–30% sensitive for detecting advanced adenomas. Repeated applications of the FIT are recommended…

Reviewing Author

David J. Bjorkman, MD, MSPH (HSA), SM (Epid.)

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose