Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Canada. Every three days, someone on PEI is diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

March is Colorectal Cancer Screening Month. Current colorectal cancer screening guidelines on PEI recommend a FIT Test (Fecal Immunochemical Test) every two years for Islanders aged 50-74 years of age for average-risk individuals. If you are at higher risk for colorectal cancer (positive family history, blood in the stool, history of colorectal cancer, notice a change in bowel movements, unexplained weight loss, vomiting, experience long-standing diarrhea or constipation), then you may require a colonoscopy. This can be arranged through the UPEI Health and Wellness Centre. 

The FIT test is available at the UPEI Health and Wellness Centre for anyone who is average risk and aged 50-74. The health centre is located on the second floor north in the W.A. Murphy Student Centre above the bookstore. If you identify as being higher risk, make an appointment to see a nurse practitioner at the health centre, and they can review the screening that is best for you and refer you for a gastroenterology consult if necessary.

Detecting colorectal cancer at an early stage improves your chances of survival and avoidance of treatment. For more information, check out Health PEI’s Provincial colorectal cancer screening program at https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/health-pei/colorectal-screening-program-fit.