Innovative Smartphone-Based Method for Colorectal Cancer Screening Under Investigation

Scientists are exploring a smartphone-based stool test as a convenient and accurate alternative to traditional colorectal cancer screening methods, aiming to increase participation and early detection.

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Colorectal cancer screening remains underutilized in Germany, despite its importance in early detection and prevention. Traditional screening methods include colonoscopy, which is highly accurate and allows for immediate removal of precancerous lesions, and fecal immunochemical testing (FIT), a noninvasive blood in stool test that detects hidden blood, indicating potential issues such as tumors or polyps. However, uptake rates for FIT are low in Germany, with only about 20% of eligible individuals participating regularly, compared to over 70% in countries like the Netherlands.

Researchers at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) have explored the possibility of integrating digital technology to boost participation. They developed a smartphone-based stool test utilizing a rapid hemoglobin detection kit combined with a dedicated app. The test involves users collecting stool samples using a simple dipstick method, which is then analyzed by the app by taking a photo of the test strip. This new approach aims to be more convenient, eliminating the need for sending samples to labs and reducing waiting times, as results are displayed instantly.

This innovative method was tested in the BLITZ study, involving 654 participants scheduled for colonoscopy in southern Germany from 2021 to 2023. Participants could opt to also perform the smartphone-based test, and a majority found it to be a useful alternative. The study found that the accuracy of the smartphone test was comparable to traditional lab-based FIT, detecting potential cancerous changes with similar sensitivity and low false positive rates. Specifically, the app detected 28% of advanced mucosal changes, close to the 34% detection rate of conventional tests, with both methods achieving a specificity of 92%, meaning few false positives.

The results suggest that smartphone-based stool testing could serve as a practical, accessible, and patient-friendly addition or alternative to conventional screening. This technological advancement offers the potential to increase screening participation, ultimately aiding in early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-colorectal-cancer-screening-smartphone-scientists.html