How To Prepare
Since colorectal cancers do not bleed
all the time, FOBT and FIT tests are done over several days on
different stool samples. This increases the chance of finding blood in
your stool if it exists. A stool DNA test requires only one sample.
You may need to avoid certain foods for 2 to 3 days before the test. This depends on what kind of stool test you use. If you aren't sure, ask your doctor.
Do not do the stool tests during your menstrual period or if you
have active bleeding from hemorrhoids. Also, do not test a stool sample that
has been in contact with toilet bowl cleaning products that turn the water
blue.
Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have
regarding the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the
results will mean. To help you understand the importance of this test, fill out
the
medical test information form
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