Fit test alternatives

[Tallyi]

Hi all, so I just turned 40 and my primary has suggested a fit test bc of my age.

I have horrible health anxiety. I have three children and do to traumatic births (episiotomy and fourth degree laceration) I have a bunch of pelvic problems. I have a rectocele and a cystocele, and have had issues with prolapsing hemorrhoids and a recurrent anal fissure (this did cause a few bright red spots visible on tp a year ago but the fissure was visible to the naked eye and evaluated by my gyn).

Anyway, my primary said “well jjst do the test when you don’t have hemorrhoids”. I don’t always know! I feel like I always have them. Everything will be fine and then I’ll have an issue with a prolapse, other wise they don’t bother me. Besides the fissure incident I have not seen blood. I have horrible health anxiety and am worried that I’ll end up with a positive fit test and then all the anxiety waiting for the results.

I am going to ask my gyn (making yet another appt), but should people w hemorrhoids go ahead with a fit test? Should I request just to skip to the colonoscopy? Is this even possible being 40 and not 45? Thank you!

[GCCA-Survivor Administrator]

Hi Tallyi ... I'm sorry that these symptoms are causing you anxiety. To hopefully lessen your anxiety I would have more discussions with your primary about why you should proceed with a FIT test. Are there underlying health reasons or a family history? Either way you should definitely follow your primary's directions.

Your question on whether the presence of hemorrhoids would increase the possibility of a False Positive (FP) FIT is a good one. The answer is yes. There is that possibility. Your primary said “well just do the test when you don’t have hemorrhoids”. That would be the ideal situation if that's possible.

Also, don't let your age be the determining factor on whether a colonoscopy is possible. Guidelines are currently set at 45, but underlying circumstances can warrant the procedure much earlier.

I know the anxiety is there for you, but you want this knowledge as early as possible. The result of a FIT is knowledge.

Having positive FIT results can cause a lot of anxiety, and I would recommend doing your best not to get ahead of being sure you have colorectal cancer.

I know this is really difficult to do - and so we recommend that you put your energy into getting the colonoscopy scheduled and preparing for it.

I wish you the very best. Please update us on your situation.

Tom