Implementation of home ‘finger-prick’ Carcino-embryonic antigen testing for colorectal cancer follow-up - a pilot study of user acceptability

Aim Routine carcino-embryonic antigen blood testing is required after colorectal cancer resection, requiring face-to-face appointments. This has workforce implications, and impacts patients’ lives. We assessed feasibility and acceptability of self-taken blood tests. Methods 50 colorectal cancer patients with experience of face-to-face phlebotomy surveillance agreed to self-testing finger-prick kits. Follow-up questionnaires assessed perspectives and preferences. Results 68% (50/74) of patients agreed to participate. 76% (38/50) successfully completed samples. 62% (29/47) felt it was no worse than their previous experience. Regarding future testing, 47% (22/47) preferred finger-prick testing. 19% (9/47) expressed no preference. This was unaffected by patient age. Qualitative assessment showed difficulties with pain, discomfort, and sample collection, but was more convenient and saved time for patients. Conclusions Many preferred finger-prick assessment, but some found it challenging, unnecessary or less preferable. This may reduce burden of follow-up blood tests but currently would only be acceptable to a limited patient cohort.