Final answer:
Occult-type cancer screening tests detect hidden blood in the stool, such as with a fecal occult blood test. This can indicate the presence of colon polyps or cancers, which can be preventatively addressed if they are found early during a recommended colonoscopy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Occult-type cancer screening tests, such as those used for colorectal cancer, are designed to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. Colon cancers, for instance, may be indicated by bleeding that is not overtly visible but is present in feces. The primary screening method for uncovering this symptom is the fecal occult blood test (FOBT). Through this noninvasive screening test, hidden (occult) blood can be identified, suggesting the presence of polyps or cancers within the colon which may arise from benign mucosal growths. Importantly, these polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy, thus preventing them from potentially becoming malignant.
Screening for fecal occult blood tests and colonoscopy are critical in cancer prevention and are recommended for individuals over 50 years of age, according to medical guidelines. Not only is early detection advantageous for treatment, but it can also significantly reduce the risks of the disease progressing to advanced stages including metastasis, where cancer cells spread and grow in distant organs.