ColoTest for colon cancer screening debuts at select Walmart locations
Reese Pharmaceutical, a privately held manufacturer of over-the-counter branded and private label products is unveiling ColoTest, its new fecal immunochemical test for colon cancer screening, at 3,700 Walmart locations across the U.S.
The FDA-cleared ColoTest identifies the presence of hidden blood in the stool in support of the early detection of colon cancer or gastrointestinal disorders such as colitis, diverticulitis and polyps, Reese Pharmaceutical said.
Launched in February 2024, it is now available in thousands of retail locations as well as online at Walmart.com. A store locator provides consumers access to the location nearest them.
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The company said that the vast majority of colon cancer deaths are considered preventable when identified in early stages. Despite this, colon cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., with rates rising among younger adults in particular. According to a recent report by the American Cancer Society, nearly double the number of adults under 55 are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer compared to a decade ago, and colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer deaths in men under the age of 50 (second in women under 50).
"Colonoscopies are the gold standard of screening for colorectal cancer. However, only some people become eligible for the procedure before age 45. Other barriers to colonoscopy may include fear of the procedure, lack of adequate insurance/insurance coverage for the test or other issues. ColoTest offers a highly accurate and discreet alternative that anyone can use in the comfort of their home, regardless of age, and without the need for a prescription, which may support increased screening for some people,” the company said.
"With colon cancer rates on the rise, addressing barriers to screening is critical. ColoTest is an important option that offers a convenient, affordable, non-invasive test that can identify invisible blood in stool, a key warning sign for colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal abnormalities," said Jeffrey Reese, president of Reese Pharmaceutical. "We're proud to now offer this important tool to Walmart customers, significantly expanding its availability and the opportunity to get more Americans screened for this often deadly cancer."
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To use ColoTest, users simply place a sheet of paper from the kit over the toilet, use the collection tube to gather the sample, follow cassette instructions to test and wait for a reaction. Results appear in as little as one minute. Those with a positive test are advised to contact their doctor for additional testing, such as a colonoscopy.