An at-home fecal immunochemical test (FIT) costing $49 can detect early-onset colon cancer, increasing survival chances. The FDA-approved test screens for blood in stool, a cancer indicator. A positive result leads to a colonoscopy. While about 80% accurate alone, adding DNA screening boosts accuracy to 92%. A recent study showed those aged 40-49 using FIT were 39% less likely to die from colon cancer. With colon cancer surging among younger people, doctors are recommending earlier screening. The test involves mailing a stool sample; results arrive in five days. Although some false positives occur, early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.