Gastroenterology• Updated 21 October 2026
Stool Test for Hidden Blood (FIT)
A stool test that detects tiny amounts of blood not visible to the eye, used to screen for bowel cancer.
Results: A few days Specimen: Stool
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To screen for bowel cancer and investigate bowel symptoms or anaemia.
What It Measures
Human haemoglobin in stool (faecal immunochemical test).
Preparation
Follow the kit instructions.
Overview
FIT detects human blood only, so diet doesn't affect it.
A positive result usually leads to a colonoscopy.
What It Measures
Hidden blood
Haemoglobin in stool.
How It's Performed
- 01
Collect
Use the stick to sample stool.
- 02
Seal
Put it in the tube.
- 03
Return
As instructed.
Interpreting Results & Next Steps
Discuss with Doctor
Your doctor will explain what your result means and what happens next.
If values are High:
A positive result needs a colonoscopy; most positives aren't cancer.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Bowel cancer screening(opens in a new tab) · NHS