Faecal Immunochemical Tests (FIT Test)

The Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT test) is a non-invasive screening test designed to detect the presence of human blood in stool samples, which may indicate various gastrointestinal conditions, including bowel cancer. The FIT test is particularly effective in screening asymptomatic individuals for bowel cancer, as well as investigating abdominal symptoms such as changes in bowel habit, anaemia, weight loss or unusual stools. Unlike older faecal occult blood tests (FOBTs), the FIT test specifically targets human haemoglobin, or haemoglobin/haptoglobin complexes in stool, making it more accurate and less likely to produce false positives from dietary sources, like red meat.


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    Faecal Haemoglobin ELISA (IDK®)

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Importance of FITs in Bowel Cancer Screening

Conducting a FIT test is straightforward. Patients receive a FIT kit with a collection container and detailed instructions. They use this kit to collect a small stool sample at home, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results, often referred to as FIT results, are typically available within minutes using BIOHIT’s technology. The test’s sensitivity and specificity mean that it can detect lower levels of blood in the stool more reliably than older tests.

The FIT test is an essential component of the bowel cancer screening programmes, especially for those at average risk of developing the disease. It helps detect bowel cancer early, even in the absence of symptoms. For those with known gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the FIT test is useful in monitoring disease activity and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment. Positive results from the FIT test may necessitate further investigation to determine the underlying cause.

Overall, the FIT test offers a practical and effective way to screen for potential health issues, making it an important tool in primary care settings for detecting and managing conditions that affect the digestive tract.


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