Is there anything I need to do to prepare for the FIT test?
The FIT does not require any special preparation, but there are some
conditions that could affect the results. You should not use the FIT if you:
- Have active bleeding from haemorrhoids
- Have blood in your urine
- Are a woman having your menstrual period or during the three days after the end of your period. Toilet cleaners may affect test results and should be removed before using the FIT.
My FIT test results are out. What happens next?
An appointment will be sent to participants with a positive FIT result. These
will generally refer them for further investigations, usually a colonoscopy.
What does colonoscopy involve?
A colonoscopy allows a doctor to look inside the entire rectum and colon
whilst sedated. An instrument called a colonoscope is inserted into the large
intestine through your back passage. The colonoscope is a long, flexible tube
with a bright light at the end of it to obtain a clear view of the lining of
your bowel. The procedure takes 30 to 40 minutes.
What do I need to do to prepare for my colonoscopy?
Preparing for a colonoscopy can be uncomfortable or inconvenient, but it
is necessary for the test to be effective.
Before having your colonoscopy, on the day before your test, you will be
asked to follow a special diet and take a laxative. These will help empty your
bowel. It is important that your bowel is empty so that we get a good clear
view of it when we do the colonoscopy.
Foreign patients need to follow the basic entitlement guidelines
outlined in the following table and provide the necessary documentation when
requested.
|
Proof of NI
Contributions (payslip or inland revenue receipt)
|
Reciprocal Heath
Agreement Card
|
Certificate of
Entitlement
|
|
|
|
If you're working
in Malta
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
If you're British
and living in Malta
|
|
|
|
|
|
Either one of the
three documents
|
If you're married
to a Maltese
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
If you're married
to someone paying NI
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Whom to contact if something happens before my colonoscopy?
Contact the Screening Unit on 21227470 or 21227471 between 8:30am and
2:45pm before your appointment in such cases and they will coordinate
communications with the colonoscopy coordinator on your behalf.
When will I know my colonoscopy results? What happens next?
You will receive a copy of your results via post. If the test results
are within the normal range, you will be given a different set of
instructions dependent on the findings of the colonoscopy.
On the other hand, if you are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, a
fast-track process will start off where you will be referred to Mater Dei
Hospital or Gozo General Hospital for specialised care. The colorectal
screening team will liaise with the hospital team to pass on details of your
case and arrange an urgent follow-up appointment.
I have noticed some abnormal symptoms and am concerned about the
possibility of colorectal cancer. What should I do?
The Colorectal Screening programme offers a screening service with
scheduled appointments for individuals who are well and does not offer a
walk-in service for gastrointestinal symptoms. If you have noticed anything
unusual that you are concerned about do not wait for your screening
appointment, speak to your family doctor.
Symptoms to look out for:
· Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement).
· Stomach pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away.
· Losing weight and you don’t know why
I have a strong family history of colorectal cancer and am concerned
about my risk of getting colorectal cancer. What should I do?
If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may have a higher
risk of developing colorectal cancer than average. If you think you are at
increased risk, speak to your family doctor about:
· When to begin screening.
· Which test is right for you.
· How often to be tested.
Furthermore, if you have a history of inflammatory bowel disease or
familial adenomatous polyposis or hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer, make
sure you discuss your options with your GP.
I fall within the age group eligible for colorectal cancer screening,
but I have not received an invitation. What should I do?
If you fall within the age group eligible for screening (57 to 73 years
of age) but have not received a screening invitation, you can call the
Screening Centre for a test kit.
Whom can I contact if I have any questions about colorectal cancer
screening?
If you have any questions or difficulties regarding colorectal cancer
screening, one may contact the Screening Centre on
Telephone: 2122 7470/1 between 8.30am – 2.45pm
Address: 17, Lascaris Wharf, Valletta, VLT 1921.