Understanding FIT results

Overview

The Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a simple stool test that looks for tiny amounts of blood in your poo that you cannot see. It is often used in bowel cancer screening programmes to find people who may need further tests.

Yes, FIT is a common screening test for bowel cancer in many countries, including the UK. It is offered to people aged 50 to 74 as part of the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme.

FIT is used for adults, usually starting at age 50, but younger people may have it if they have symptoms or a family history of bowel cancer.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• FIT is not about symptoms – it is a screening test for people without symptoms.
• If you have symptoms like blood in your stool, a change in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss, you should see a doctor regardless of FIT results.

Causes

Main causes

• Blood in the stool can be caused by several things, including polyps (growths), haemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammation, or bowel cancer.
• FIT detects blood from anywhere in the digestive tract, not just the bowel.

Risk factors

• A positive FIT result is more likely if you are over 50, have a family history of bowel cancer, or have a condition like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any visible blood in your stool or a sudden change in bowel habit.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you receive a positive FIT result, you will be contacted by the screening programme to discuss having a colonoscopy.
• If you have a negative FIT result but still have symptoms, talk to your doctor.

Diagnosis

FIT is a diagnostic screening test, not a diagnosis of a condition. A positive FIT leads to further tests, usually a colonoscopy, to find the cause of the blood.

Tests that may be done

• FIT test kit (home stool sample)
• Colonoscopy (a camera examination of your bowel)
• Sometimes a CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)

What to expect at your appointment

You will receive a FIT kit in the post. You collect a small stool sample and send it to a lab. Results are usually back within 2 weeks. If positive, you will be offered a colonoscopy to look inside your bowel.

Treatment

Treatment depends on what is found after a positive FIT. Most people have no serious problem. If polyps are found, they are removed during colonoscopy. If cancer is found, treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy.

Self-care at home

• If you have a negative FIT and no symptoms, no special care is needed.
• Eat a healthy diet high in fibre and low in processed meats to support bowel health.

Medical treatments

If a precancerous polyp is found, it can be removed during colonoscopy. For bowel cancer, treatment may involve surgery to remove the tumour, followed by chemotherapy or radiotherapy if needed. Some people may also need medication to manage symptoms or complications.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is often needed for bowel cancer that has not spread. Polyps are usually removed during colonoscopy without major surgery.

Living with this condition

After a positive FIT, you may feel anxious while waiting for further tests. Most people return to normal life after a clear result or treatment.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active and eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Keep a healthy weight and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol.

Diet and exercise

A diet high in fibre (whole grains, beans, fruits) and low in red and processed meats can help your digestive health. Regular exercise, like walking 30 minutes a day, also supports bowel function.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for test results can be stressful. It is normal to feel worried. Talk to your doctor or a counsellor if anxiety becomes overwhelming.

Prevention

Bowel cancer cannot always be prevented, but a healthy lifestyle and regular screening can reduce your risk. FIT helps find problems early when they are easier to treat.

Screening programmes

Routine FIT screening every two years is offered to people aged 50 to 74. If you are invited, take the test – even if you feel fine.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a positive FIT is ignored and there is an underlying cancer, it may grow and spread, making treatment more difficult.
• Other causes of blood loss, like anaemia, can worsen if not addressed.

Long-term outlook

Most people with a positive FIT do not have cancer. Even when cancer is found, early stage diagnosis has a very high survival rate. Screening saves lives by catching problems early.

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