Skip to main content

How long does it take to get results from a home colorectal cancer test?

How long does it take to get results from a home colorectal cancer test?

Find Help

More Items From Ergsy search


Introduction to Home Colorectal Cancer Tests

Home colorectal cancer tests offer a convenient way for individuals in the UK to screen for signs of colorectal cancer. These tests typically involve collecting a stool sample at home, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The main goal is to detect any signs of blood or abnormal DNA in the stool, which may indicate the presence of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps.

Types of Home Colorectal Cancer Tests

Two common types of home colorectal cancer tests are the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) and the stool DNA test. The FIT detects hidden blood in the stool, while the stool DNA test checks for certain DNA markers that may be present in cancerous or precancerous cells shed in the stool. The choice between these tests may depend on availability, cost, and personal preference.

Process for Taking the Test

To take a home colorectal cancer test, individuals receive a test kit by mail or from their healthcare provider. The kit includes instructions, a sample collection device, and packaging for returning the sample. It is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. Typically, the individual will collect a small stool sample, place it in the provided container, and return the package to the designated laboratory using the prepaid envelope included in the kit.

Timeframe for Receiving Results

Once the laboratory receives the stool sample, the time taken to process and analyze it can vary. Generally, results from a home colorectal cancer test are available within one to two weeks. This timeframe allows for the laboratory to conduct a thorough analysis and ensure accuracy in the results reported.

Understanding the Test Results

The results of a home colorectal cancer test typically indicate whether the test is positive or negative for signs of blood or abnormal DNA. A negative result suggests no evidence of colorectal cancer was found in the sample, though it is important to continue regular screenings as recommended. A positive result indicates the presence of blood or abnormal markers, which does not necessarily mean cancer is present, but further diagnostic procedures, such as a colonoscopy, are recommended to investigate the cause.

Importance of Follow-Up and Regular Screening

Receiving results from a home colorectal cancer test is an important step, but it is equally crucial to follow up with healthcare professionals, especially if the result is positive. Regular screening is vital, as early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. In the UK, individuals over the age of 60 are often invited for regular bowel screening, which includes tests like the FIT, as part of national health guidelines.

Conclusion

Home colorectal cancer tests provide a practical way for individuals to engage in preventative health care. The process from testing to receiving results is straightforward, typically taking one to two weeks. However, understanding the importance of results and subsequent actions is key to effective healthcare management. Individuals are encouraged to participate in regular screening and consult healthcare providers for guidance and any necessary follow-up actions.

Introduction to Home Colorectal Cancer Tests

Home tests for colorectal cancer help people in the UK check for signs of this cancer. These tests are easy to use. You collect a stool (poo) sample at home. Then, you send it to a lab to be checked. The test looks for blood or unusual DNA in the stool. These might show signs of cancer or growths called polyps.

Types of Home Colorectal Cancer Tests

There are two main types of home tests: the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) and the stool DNA test. The FIT looks for hidden blood in the stool. The stool DNA test looks for DNA changes in bad cells in the stool. Which test you choose might depend on what’s available, how much it costs, and what you prefer.

Process for Taking the Test

To do the test, you get a kit in the mail or from your doctor. The kit has instructions, a tool to collect your sample, and a package to send it back. Follow the steps carefully to get the right results. Usually, you take a small stool sample, put it in the container in the kit, and send it to the lab using the included envelope.

Timeframe for Receiving Results

After the lab gets your sample, it takes about one to two weeks to get your results. This time lets the lab check your sample carefully to make sure the results are correct.

Understanding the Test Results

Your test results will say if they found blood or unusual DNA in your stool. A negative result means they didn’t find anything wrong, but you should keep doing regular tests. A positive result means they found something that needs more checking. It does not mean you have cancer, but you should have more tests, like a colonoscopy.

Importance of Follow-Up and Regular Screening

Getting your test results is important, but you should also talk to your doctor, especially if the result is positive. Regular tests are very important because finding cancer early can help treat it better. In the UK, people over 60 often get invited for regular tests, like the FIT, as part of health check-ups.

Conclusion

Home tests for colorectal cancer are a good way to take care of your health. The whole process, from testing to getting results, is usually simple and takes about one to two weeks. It’s important to understand your results and what to do next. Always join regular screenings and talk to your doctor for advice and next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Links

Useful Links : How long does it take to get results from a home colorectal cancer test?
NHS Bowel Cancer Screening

Information on the NHS bowel cancer screening programme, which includes home test kits and how long it takes to get results.
NHS - Bowel cancer screening kit

Details on how to use the bowel cancer screening kit and what to expect in terms of results timeline.
Cancer Research UK - Bowel cancer screening

Understanding bowel cancer screening, including information on the home screening test and how long results might take.
Macmillan Cancer Support - Bowel screening

Comprehensive guide on bowel cancer screening and insight into how long the process takes and when results are available.
Bowel Cancer UK - Home Screening

Explanation of the NHS bowel cancer screening process with information on the home test kit and results timeline.
NHS Inform - Bowel Screening

NHS Inform provides insights on bowel screening services and what to expect regarding results.
Age UK - Bowel Cancer Screening

Information aimed at older adults on bowel cancer screening, including the time frames for receiving the home test results.
Beating Bowel Cancer - Screening Process

Beating Bowel Cancer explains the importance of early diagnosis through screening, with notes on the timing of results.
Important Information On Using This Service
  • Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
  • Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
  • To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
Using Subtitles and Closed Captions
  • Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
  • You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
Turn Captions On or Off
  • Go to the video you'd like to watch.
  • If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
  • To turn on Captions, click settings .
  • To turn off Captions, click settings again.

More Items From Ergsy search