Faecal Immunochemical Test (qFIT) Information
What is being tested?
The faecal immunochemical test (qFIT) looks for blood in your poo. Usually, only a tiny bit of blood is lost in the stomach or intestines, which you can't see. A positive test means there might be bleeding in your tummy area. This could be from things like ulcers, piles, or even early bowel cancer. Sometimes, a little blood is the first sign of bowel cancer.
Who can have the FIT test?
The FIT test helps find early bowel cancer. Blood in the poo might be the only sign. If cancer is found early, it's easier to treat. Some people, like those with certain symptoms or over 60 with low iron, might need to see a doctor quickly and won't get a FIT test. For others, if the signs aren't clear, the FIT test helps the doctor decide.
How do you get tested?
Your doctor will give you a pack with everything you need to collect a poo sample. You send it to the lab or give it back to the doctor to send.
Inside the pack you will find the:
• Collection device / picker
• Sample bag
• Instructions
Your GP should have completed a request form, if this has not been done then please ask the practice to do this for you.
Read the instructions carefully
Click here to see a full sized version of the instructions:
How soon can I expect the results?
Your GP will get the test results within 7 working days after the test is sent to the lab. If you haven't heard anything in 10-14 days, please contact the practice.
What do the results mean?
- Negative Result: If the test is negative, it means it's very unlikely you have bowel cancer. You won't need a referral for suspected bowel cancer. If your GP is still worried about your symptoms, they might do more tests or refer you to a specialist.
- Positive Result: If the test is positive, it doesn't mean you definitely have cancer. There could be other reasons for the bleeding. Your GP will likely refer you for more tests to find out why there's bleeding, and this might be done quickly.
Where can I access further information and support?
• For more information about FIT the following website might be of interest: www.faecal-immunochemical-test.co.uk/
• For more general information about laboratory tests: https://labtestsonline.org.uk/
To contact the laboratory who are going to process your sample?
Please call the laboratory on 08007076060.