Saskatchewan province is breaking new ground for detection of colorectal cancer, through a new program. The province, where nearly 650 people are annually diagnosed with the cancer and about 250 die from it, will be spending $1.1 million for colorectal cancer diagnosis.

Saskatchewan Health Minister, Don McMorris, announced the launch of the program on Tuesday. Called the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) to screen patients, the new, advanced stool test can spot blood which can not seen by naked eye.

McHattie said: "I'm sure that this program is going to help save lives. It's going to reduce pain and suffering, and the personal and economic cost of advanced colorectal cancer."

The FIT test is far more precise and easier in comparison to the current fecal occult blood test, which also involves taking stool samples. The FIT test also has fewer restrictions - of foods, drinks, and certain medicines - and can be done at home, with the samples mailed in.

Commending the program, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency CEO Bob Allen said: "Every person screened is a potential life saved."

This spring, the announced program will be tried out in Five Hills Health Region, including Moose Jaw and neighboring areas. The implementation cost of the pilot project will be $1.1 million, which will increase to $3.5 million every year in 2011-12, once the project is made available to health regions throughout the province.