Colorectal cancer, commonly known as colon cancer, generally develops very slowly. A person can have the cancer for years without showing any symptoms.
Screening aims to detect and treat colorectal cancer before the onset of signs and symptoms. Usually, at the time of screening, the cancer is at an early stage and the chances of curing it are higher.
Source: MSSS Quebec.ca
Services
We offer colorectal cancer screening, with or without a medical referral, for those at risk.
Screening methods:
The screening method is based on the individual’s risk level.
- Immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOBT): This test is indicated for people with an average or slightly increased risk. While it cannot diagnose colorectal cancer, it can detect whether there is blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer. If the test result is positive, the healthcare professional will recommend a colonoscopy.
- Colonoscopy: This test is indicated for people with a moderately increased risk and is also recommended when the iFOBT result is positive for blood. A colonoscopy allows a doctor to look at the inside of the large intestine and to remove pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions and to take biopsies should anything be detected.
Who can benefit from screening?
With or without a medical referral
Screening for colorectal cancer is offered for:
- People between 50 and 74 years old;
- People aged 49 and under who have more family members who have already been diagnosed with colorectal cancer;
Colorectal cancer screening is not for:
- People who have already been diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime;
- People who received an iFOBT test result within the past two (2) years.
Where can I go for screening?
To make an appointment
Appointments are made through Clic Santé or by telephone.
- Clic Santé (Category: Screening) or 514 644-4545
- Info CIUSSS call centre: 514 630-2123
What to bring to your appointment
Please bring the following with you to your appointment:
- Your health insurance card