Are new tests under study for colorectal cancer screening?
Genetic testing of stool samples is being studied as a possible way to screen for colorectal cancer (15, 21, 22). The lining of the colon is constantly shedding cells into the stool. Testing stool samples for genetic alterations that occur in colorectal cancer cells may help doctors find evidence of cancer or precancerous growths. Research conducted thus far has shown that this kind of test can detect colorectal cancer in people already diagnosed with this disease by other means. However, more studies are needed to determine whether this type of test can accurately detect colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps in people who do not have symptoms. Information about ongoing clinical trials that are studying methods for colorectal cancer screening can be found in NCI’s clinical trials database. This database can be searched by visiting http://www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials/search on the Internet. You may also contact NCI’s Cancer Information Service (see contact information below) for ass
