New over-the-counter FIT test offers fast
results at home with no lab testing
CLEVELAND, May 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Reese
Pharmaceutical, a privately held manufacturer of over-the-counter
(OTC) branded and private label products today announced
ColoTest®, its new Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) for
colon cancer screening, is now available 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. 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 at
mycolotest.com/store-locator/.
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.
"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."
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.
For more information on ColoTest, click here.
Reese Pharmaceutical has been serving the pharmaceutical
industry for over 100 years with a portfolio of products across
cough and cold, digestive care, family planning, feminine health,
and first aid. The company received U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) clearance for ColoTest in September 2023.
Media Contact
Karen
Laverty, eMedia Junction
karen@emediajunction.com
About Reese Pharmaceutical
Founded in 1907 and
headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio,
Reese Pharmaceutical Company is a privately held manufacturer of
OTC branded and private label products selling to national and
regional discount chains, food and grocery, drug wholesalers,
co-ops, and independent pharmacies.
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SOURCE Reese Pharmaceutical