Should You Skip Fecal Tests After a Recent Colonoscopy?

Fecal screening

Hello Doctor: Last May, I experienced rectal bleeding, and I underwent a colonoscopy in June, which showed good bowel preparation and no polyps.
The diagnosis was hemorrhoids.
Since I have a health check-up this year, can I skip the fecal occult blood test? Is it possible to wait until next year's health check-up to perform the stool test? Thank you.

Xiao Yue, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/25

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery

If you have hemorrhoids, it can indeed lead to a positive result for occult blood in the stool.
Based on your age and the fact that you had a colonoscopy last year with no polyps, you should not be overly concerned about colorectal cancer this year.
However, you should verify whether any changes can be made to your health check-up items.

Reply Date: 2021/09/25

More Info

When considering whether to skip fecal tests after a recent colonoscopy, it's essential to understand the purpose and timing of these tests in relation to your overall gastrointestinal health. In your case, since you underwent a colonoscopy in June of last year, where the findings indicated no polyps and a diagnosis of hemorrhoids, you may be wondering if it's necessary to repeat fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) this year during your health check-up.

Fecal occult blood tests are designed to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal issues. The American Cancer Society recommends that average-risk individuals begin regular screening for colorectal cancer at age 45, which can include a variety of methods such as colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, or stool tests like FOBT or fecal immunochemical tests (FIT).
Given that your colonoscopy was clear and you were diagnosed with hemorrhoids, it is reasonable to consider skipping the fecal test this year, especially if you have no new symptoms or changes in your bowel habits. However, it is important to note that guidelines often recommend regular screening, and the frequency can depend on individual risk factors, family history, and previous findings. Since you had a clear colonoscopy, many healthcare providers might suggest that you can wait until your next scheduled screening, which could be in a year or two, depending on your doctor's recommendations.

However, if you experience any new symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, or any rectal bleeding, it would be prudent to consult your healthcare provider immediately, regardless of your previous colonoscopy results.
In terms of medical knowledge, it is crucial to understand that while a clear colonoscopy is reassuring, it does not eliminate the risk of developing colorectal cancer or other gastrointestinal conditions in the future. Regular screening is vital because some conditions may develop between screenings.
In conclusion, if you are asymptomatic and your last colonoscopy was normal, you may consider skipping the fecal occult blood test this year. However, it is always best to discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider, who can give personalized advice based on your health history and any potential risk factors. They may recommend continuing with annual health checks that include discussions about your gastrointestinal health, even if they do not require a fecal test this year. Regular communication with your healthcare provider is key to maintaining your health and addressing any concerns that may arise.

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