FIT bowel screening test
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
The FIT bowel screening test is a simple, at-home test that looks for hidden blood in your stool (poo). It helps find bowel cancer early, when it's easier to treat. The test is done every two years for people aged 60 to 74 in the UK.
Key facts
- The FIT test is free and done at home with a small sample of your stool.
- It detects tiny amounts of blood that you cannot see, which can be a sign of bowel cancer or polyps (growths that can turn into cancer).
- Around 1 in 20 people who do the test will be invited for further tests, most of whom do not have cancer.
Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK. The FIT test helps find it early, when treatment is most successful.
The FIT test is offered to everyone aged 60 to 74 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and from 50 in Scotland. It is for people who do not have any symptoms. If you have symptoms, your doctor may recommend a different test.
Symptoms
- Severe tummy pain that comes on suddenly and does not go away
- Vomiting blood or pooing blood that is bright red or looks like coffee grounds
- A blocked bowel (unable to poo or pass gas, with bloating and pain)
- ⚠Blood in your poo that lasts more than a few days
- ⚠Unexplained weight loss that is worrying you
- ⚠A lump in your tummy that you have not noticed before
Common symptoms
- A lasting change in bowel habits – going more often or with looser poo
- Blood in your poo that is red or black
- Unexplained weight loss
- Tiredness and looking pale (anaemia)
- A lump or pain in your tummy
Symptoms in children
- Bowel cancer is extremely rare in children. Symptoms such as blood in poo are more likely due to other causes like infection or constipation. Always see a doctor if you are worried.
Symptoms in older adults
- Older adults may have the same symptoms as others, but changes in bowel habits can also be caused by medicines or other health conditions. The FIT test is especially important for this group.
Causes
Main causes
- Bowel cancer happens when cells in the bowel grow out of control. The exact cause is not always known, but certain risk factors increase the chance.
Risk factors
- Age over 50
- A diet high in red or processed meat and low in fibre
- Being overweight or obese
- Not being active enough
- Smoking and drinking alcohol regularly
- Having a close family member with bowel cancer
- Having inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn's or ulcerative colitis)
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have any of the emergency symptoms listed above, call your local emergency number (such as 999 in the UK) or go to A&E.
- If you see blood in your poo for the first time and it is more than a small streak, see your GP urgently.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have any symptoms that last more than three weeks, even if they come and go, make an appointment with your GP.
- If you are aged 60-74 (or 50 in Scotland) and have not had a FIT test, contact your local screening programme.
Diagnosis
The FIT test is a first step. If you have symptoms, or if your FIT test shows blood, the next step is usually a colonoscopy – a camera test to look inside your bowel.
Tests that may be done
- FIT test – you collect a small stool sample at home and send it to a lab.
- Colonoscopy – a thin, flexible tube with a camera goes into your bowel to look for polyps or cancer.
- CT scan – a special X-ray to see the bowel and other organs.
- Biopsy – a small tissue sample taken during colonoscopy to check for cancer cells.
What to expect at your appointment
The FIT test is simple and takes just a few minutes. If you need a colonoscopy, you will usually be given a laxative to clear your bowel. The procedure is not painful, and you may be offered a sedative to help you relax. Most people go home the same day.
Treatment
Treatment for bowel cancer depends on the stage and your general health. Options may include surgery to remove the cancer, chemotherapy (medicines that kill cancer cells), radiotherapy (high-energy rays), or targeted treatments. Your doctor will explain what is best for you.
Self-care at home
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fibre, fruits, and vegetables.
- Stay active – aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Limit red and processed meat, alcohol, and stop smoking.
Medical treatments
Medical treatments for bowel cancer can include surgery to remove the tumour, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted drug treatments. The exact plan is decided by a team of specialists and depends on the cancer’s stage and location. Always discuss with your doctor.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is the most common treatment for early-stage bowel cancer. Often the surgeon removes the part of the bowel containing the cancer and joins the healthy ends back together. In some cases a temporary or permanent stoma (bag on the tummy) may be needed.
Living with this condition
After bowel cancer treatment, many people return to their normal life. Some may have side effects like tiredness or changes in bowel habits. Follow-up appointments and scans help monitor your health. Talk to your healthcare team about any concerns.
Lifestyle tips
- Gradually build up your activity level as you feel able.
- Eat small, frequent meals if your appetite is low.
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid constipation.
- Get support from family, friends, or a counsellor.
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet with plenty of fibre can help with bowel function. Gentle exercise like walking can boost energy and mood. Avoid heavy lifting too soon after surgery.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
A cancer diagnosis can be very stressful. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, or fear are normal. Talking to a professional or joining a support group can help. If you are struggling with thoughts of harming yourself, please contact a crisis helpline or call your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention
You cannot always prevent bowel cancer, but you can lower your risk by eating a healthy diet, staying active, not smoking, and limiting alcohol. The FIT screening test can find cancer early or even prevent it by finding and removing polyps.
Screening programmes
The FIT test is a free screening test offered every two years to people aged 60-74 (50-74 in Scotland). If you are eligible, it is a simple way to check for hidden blood in your stool. Ask your GP if you have not received a kit.
Complications
If left untreated
- Bowel cancer can grow and spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs.
- It can cause a blockage in the bowel, leading to severe pain and vomiting.
- It may cause internal bleeding, leading to anaemia (low red blood cells) and tiredness.
Long-term outlook
The outlook for bowel cancer is very good if it is found early. More than 9 out of 10 people with stage 1 bowel cancer survive for 5 years or more. That is why the FIT test is so important. Even if the cancer is more advanced, treatments have improved a lot and many people live well for years.
Find support
Local organisations
- Bowel Cancer UK ↗ · UK
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.