American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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What is the recommended frequency for FOBT in colon cancer screening?

Every 6 months
Every year
Every 2 years
Every 3 years

The correct answer is: Every year

The recommended frequency for fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) in colon cancer screening is every year. This annual screening is advised because it helps in the early detection of colorectal cancer by identifying hidden blood in the stool, which may indicate the presence of cancer or polyps. Regular yearly testing increases the chances of identifying any abnormalities early on, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes and improved survival rates. In addition to annual FOBT, the guidelines suggest that adults aged 45 and older should also consider other screening modalities, such as colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the colon and the opportunity to remove polyps during the procedure. However, for the FOBT specifically, an annual frequency maximizes the effectiveness of screening, as colorectal cancers can develop over time, and yearly testing can help catch changes or the development of cancer at an earlier stage.