Fecal DNA Testing: Finally Ready for Prime Time?

Many large studies have confirmed the value and cost-effectiveness of screening for colorectal cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends fecal occult blood testing and two invasive options — flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy — to accomplish this. Yet at least one third of eligible U.S. residents don't get screened: Flexible sigmoidoscopy is rarely offered, and many patients decline colonoscopy because they perceive it as too invasive or unpleasant. Fecal occult blood testing, however, is not very sensitive and misses both precancerous lesions and …