The least invasive, least expensive form of Colorectal Cancer (CRC) screening uses annual home stool tests, also known as Fecal Occult blood tests (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical tests (FIT). If done yearly and with good follow-up, FIT or FOBT can prevent colorectal cancer or catch it early when it can be cured. Colorectal cancer screening programs that emphasize the use of FIT and FOBT as initial screening tests have been shown to be similarly effective to programs that emphasize more invasive tests, such as colonoscopy. http://www.flufit.org
The American Cancer Society, the US Preventive Services Task Force and others recommend these screening options for men and women at average risk for developing colorectal cancer.
Access the NEW American Cancer Society’s Clinicians Reference (Stool-Based Tests for Colorectal Cancer Screening). This 
document provides state of-the-science information about stool-based tests. http://nccrt.org/FOBT-Resource
If you have questions or would like to know more about increasing colon cancer screening rates through implementing these screening options in your area, contact a Great Plains QIN team member in your state.
Kansas: Kaitlin Nolte, BA – kaitlin.nolte@greatplainsqin.org
Nebraska: Jennifer Geisert, RN, BSN – jennifer.geisert@greatplainsqin.org
North Dakota: Tasha Peltier, RT(R) – tasha.peltier@greatplainsqin.org
South Dakota: Denise Kolba, MS, CNS, RN – denise.kolba@greatplainsqin.org