Is fecal genetic testing accurate for bowel cancer?

Fecal genetic testing is a screening test for bowel cancer that is not highly accurate on its own and needs to be supplemented with other tests such as a colonoscopy to diagnose the condition. The sensitivity and specificity of fecal genetic testing for bowel cancer screening are 92% and 87% respectively. Stool genetic testing is a method of screening for bowel cancer by detecting DNA mutations (e.g. KRAS) through molecular biology analysis and methylation biomarkers associated with bowel tumors through gene amplification technology. After testing, if the result is positive, further colonoscopy is recommended. Colonoscopy is a diagnostic modality used to examine lesions within the large intestine and colon, and is indicated for colorectal polyps, inflammatory diseases of the large intestine such as ulcerative colitis, chronic colitis, and bowel cancer. In addition, the diagnosis of bowel cancer requires a combination of patient history, symptoms and signs, and relevant auxiliary tests to finally confirm the disease. It is recommended that when any discomfort or abnormality occurs, one should choose to seek timely medical treatment and scientific examination to clarify the disease.