Bowel Health Sensor

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumours and is highly curable when detected early. Bowel Health Sensor is a genetic test analysing common genetic variations associated with a slightly higher or lower risk and providing pharmacogenetic information about certain medicines. The result shows susceptibility, not disease, and does not replace stool testing or colonoscopy.

Who is this test for

• you are interested in how genes, diet and habits together affect bowel health;
• a family member had colorectal cancer or polyps, and you are considering prevention;
• you want additional motivation to change your diet and lifestyle;
• you are interested in how your body might respond to certain medicines;
• you have preventive tests and want a more complete picture of your health.

What the test reveals

The test analyses genetic polymorphisms, common variations that individually change risk very little. Ask for the exact list of genes and variants covered before testing. According to the catalogue description, you receive:

• an assessment of genetic colorectal cancer risk;
• recommendations on preventive measures;
• a pharmacogenetic component explaining how inherited factors may affect the action and tolerability of certain medicines.

The test does not detect inherited syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis, which carry much higher risks. If a close relative developed disease before 50 or several family members are affected, discuss genetic testing for inherited syndromes with a doctor. A broader genetic test using a saliva sample is also available, Cancer Screen. Read more in the article Genetic assessment of colorectal cancer development.

The test and preparation

The sample is an oral swab: a swab is passed over the inside of the cheek several times. It is painless and takes a minute or two, while the whole visit usually takes around ten minutes. For 30 minutes before the swab, do not eat, drink anything except water, smoke or chew gum. Genes do not change, so the test is performed only once.

What your results mean

• Average or lower genetic risk: good news, but most cancers develop in people without a particular genetic susceptibility. Do not skip screening.
• Increased genetic risk: the increase is usually small and does not mean you will develop disease. A doctor will assess whether earlier examinations are needed. Eating less red and processed meat, more fibre, being active, not smoking and drinking less alcohol help most.
• The medicines component: shows how inherited factors may affect the action and tolerability of certain medicines, which a doctor may consider when choosing a medicine and dose.

A doctor interprets the result alongside family history, symptoms and other findings. Free genetic counselling is also available with the result. The national programme invites people aged 50 to 74 for faecal occult blood testing every two years, and immunochemical testing is being introduced gradually. Faecal occult blood testing is also available at Poliklinika Analiza.

Blood in stools, a change in bowel habits lasting several weeks, abdominal pain or unexplained weight loss warrant an examination regardless of genetic results. Read more in the article Early symptoms of colorectal cancer. Urgent: for heavy bowel bleeding or black stools, call 194 or 112.

How to arrange testing

The test is performed without a referral or appointment: a nurse takes the swab at any of our branches (listed on the Contactpage). Prices for all tests and panels are listed in the price list.

Frequently asked questions

Can a genetic test replace colonoscopy?

No. Colonoscopy and stool testing detect polyps and cancer; a genetic test shows susceptibility only. A doctor decides on colonoscopy.

If the result is favourable, do I still need screening?

Yes. Most colorectal cancers develop in people without an inherited syndrome or increased genetic susceptibility.

Does the test detect Lynch syndrome?

No. Specific genes are tested for this, usually on a doctor’s recommendation when family history suggests inherited risk.

Is colorectal cancer inherited?

Usually not. Around 5 % of affected people have an inherited syndrome. Tell your doctor if a close relative was affected, because you may need earlier examinations.