Introduction
The Test® is a test of the bowel movement that aims to find small bleeding residues in the bowel movement that are not visible to the naked eye (occult = hidden). The test serves as a screening method for colorectal carcinoma, i.e. a malignant tumor of the large intestine (colon) and/or rectum. Due to the damage to the wall layers in the context of the carcinoma, small bleedings can occur, which are not strong enough to be visible with the naked eye. The-Test® is therefore designed to detect even the smallest amounts of blood and is also well suited as a screening instrument, as it can be performed quickly and inexpensively.
When should one take a Hemoccult Test®?
The Hemoccult Test® is a standard test for the prevention of colorectal cancer. This screening test targets cancer development in the colon and rectum and is designed to ensure early detection of the disease. It is hoped to diagnose the development of cancer at an early stage so that many therapeutic options are possible.
Since the risk of colorectal cancer increases from the age of about 50 years, it is planned to carry out the Test® annually. In addition, a colonoscopy can be performed every 10 years from the age of 55 onwards, which also serves the purpose of early cancer detection. In rare cases, the Test® is recommended before the age of 50.
This applies particularly to persons with a family intestine cancer risk, if thus relatives of first degree of intestine cancer are concerned or even genetic mutations with increased intestine cancer risk in the family are well-known. As a rule, however, an earlier colonoscopy (even before the age of 55 recommended in the guideline) is performed for family members. The Test® plays a rather subordinate role in this group of people.
How often should one take a Hemoccult Test®?
The Hemoccult Test® is recommended once a year on the basis of the colorectal cancer guidelines and is covered by health insurance in this frequency. It is assumed that without further complaints (such as stool changes) an annual check for unspecific signs of colorectal cancer is sufficient. Those who have the stool test carried out less frequently run the risk of overlooking a precancerous stage that is easy to treat, and thus only getting a late diagnosis of the disease, in which possibly better therapy options are already no longer sufficient to treat the disease.
In contrast, it is usually not worthwhile to have the Test® performed more often than once a year. Although the test is considered very reliable, false positive (the test is positive even though there is no colorectal cancer) results may occur. The more often the test is performed, the more likely you are to test positive, regardless of whether you actually have the disease. Therefore it does not make sense to perform the test at monthly or even weekly intervals.
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