At-Home Colon Cancer Screening Tips
Published Monday, March 16, 2026
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month. While colon cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when caught early, 42 per cent of eligible adults in Northwestern Ontario remain overdue for screening. Few realize that colon cancer screening begins with a simple test done at home in just a few minutes.
Colon cancer often develops without symptoms, making regular screening one of the most effective ways to catch the disease early. In many cases, the first sign of cancer is something only a stool test can detect: tiny amounts of blood in the stool (poop) that cannot be seen with the naked eye. When colon cancer is found at an early stage, 9 out of 10 people can be cured.
People between the ages of 50 and 74 who are at average risk for colon cancer are advised to complete a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) every two years. The FIT checks for those traces of blood, potentially caused by cancer or pre-cancerous polyps. The test is painless, non-invasive, and can be completed in the privacy of your home.
Along with the instructions provided in your FIT kit, these tips can help ensure your test is completed successfully:
- Check your health card. A valid card is needed to receive and complete a FIT.
- Don't wait to complete the test. FITs have expiry dates located on the tube – don't delay!
- Label carefully. Make sure your name, birth date, and collection date are correct on the tube.
- Check the requisition form. Include your information and return it with the test.
- Mail it quickly. Drop off at your nearest post office or LifeLabs within two days of completion.
- Avoid outdoor mailboxes. FIT samples are temperature sensitive – they can't get too hot or too cold.
This Colon Cancer Awareness Month, take action and speak with your healthcare provider about whether colon cancer screening is right for you.
If you don't have a healthcare provider, you can get your FIT on the Screen for Life Coach (807-684-7777) or by calling Health811. The test does not require a doctor referral and is covered by OHIP for eligible individuals. To learn more, visit tbrhsc.net/colon-cancer-screening
Jasmin Fisher, Cancer Promotions & Communications Planner