Fecal occult blood test: a valuable aid in the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer

Abstract

Introduction: colorectal cancer has increased in recent years; the clinical laboratory diagnostic elements can provide simple and specific features when it is still asymptomatic with great healing potential. Objectives: to determine the relationship between the study of occult blood, positive blood stool and related diseases at Turcios Lima Teaching Polyclinic in Pinar del Río. Method: a descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in order to diagnose and detect fecal occult blood in patients belonging to the health area of Pinar del Río, between July 2014 to June 2015; 35 patients comprised the target group they attended to the fecal laboratory studies, they were randomly selected and the sample included 410 patients who met the pre-established criteria. Results: out of the 410 cases included, only 10% were positive for the procedure, 22 men and 18 women; ages from 40-50 prevailed and ages from 50-60 years. Eight (8) patients agreed not to continue the study, 32 were underwent colonoscopy and the results were suggestive of gastrointestinal malignancies. Conclusions: a high incidence was found among positive fecal occult blood and the expression of colorectal cancer, male patients in productive ages of life (40-50 years) predominated, it is recommended a more extensive use of this diagnostic means to the entire population since it has simple risk, it is economical and safe; these screening tests are applicable at all levels of care.