FIT Test

The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a screening tool for colon cancer that detects hidden blood in the stool, an early potential sign of the disease. FIT specifically identifies human blood from the lower intestines, and unlike some other tests, it is not affected by medications or diet.
£ 60.00 GBP
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What is the FiT Test?

The fecal immunochemical test, or FIT, is a non-invasive screening tool used to detect early signs of colon cancer. It works by identifying hidden (occult) blood in your stool, which can be an early indicator of potential problems in the lower intestines, including cancer or large polyps.One of the key advantages of FIT is its specificity: it only detects human blood from the lower digestive tract. Unlike some older stool tests, it is not affected by medications, vitamins, or certain foods, making the results more reliable. This accuracy helps reduce false positive results and unnecessary follow-up procedures.FIT is simple to use, can be done at home, and plays a crucial role in early detection of colon cancer, which is vital for effective treatment and better outcomes. Regular screening with FIT is recommended for adults over a certain age or for those at higher risk, as guided by your healthcare provider.

How is the FiT Test Performed?

For colon cancer screening, you’ll complete the FIT test at home. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. Typical steps include:

  • Flush the toilet before your bowel movement.
  • Place used toilet paper in the provided waste bag—do not flush it.
  • Use the brush from the kit to collect a small sample from the surface of your stool.
  • Dip the brush into the toilet water and then touch it to the designated area on the test card.
  • Place the brush in the waste bag and dispose of it.
  • Send the completed test card to the lab for analysis.

Your healthcare provider may ask you to collect samples from more than one bowel movement to improve test accuracy.

What the Test Feels Like

While collecting the sample may feel a little uncomfortable for some, the test itself is completely painless.

Preparing for the Test

No preparation is required for this test.

Why is the FiT Test Performed?

Hidden blood in the stool can be an early indicator of colon cancer. The FIT test checks for this blood, which isn’t visibleto the naked eye, helping detect issues that can be treated before cancer develops or spreads.Discuss with your healthcare provider when you should begin colon cancer screenings. Adults aged 45 to 75 aregenerally advised to undergo regular colorectal screening, with several test options available:

  • Stool-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) annually
  • Stool DNA (sDNA) test every 1 to 3 years
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years, or every 10 years if combined with annual FIT testing
  • CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years
  • Colonoscopy every 10 years

See what our patients have to say.

"My visit was well organised with a brief consultation and blood test."
Verified on Doctify
11 August 2025
"I am very pleased with every aspect of the treatment and care I received."
Verified on Doctify
25 July 2025
"I was worried coming in but everyone was very welcoming and made me relax and the procedure was much quicker than expected."
Verified on Doctify
25 June 2025
"Wonderful experience from start to finish. Everything was explained very clearly and reassuring. I can’t recommend or thank Mr Ismail enough."
Verified on Doctify
13 June 2025
"Mr Tariq Ishmail is a brilliant specialist. He has seen it all and is able to advise you and in my case put my mind at rest."
Verified on Doctify
02 June 2025

Our Testing Process

Getting a FiT Test is simple and straightforward. You will be given testing kit to use at home. Apply the sample to the designated spot on the test card, and then place the brush in the waste bag for disposal. Once completed, send the test card to the lab for analysis.
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Performing the Test

Before starting the test, flush the toilet. Place any used toilet paper in the provided waste bag rather than the toilet. Use the brush from the kit to collect a small stool sample, then dip it into the toilet water. Apply the sample to the designated spot on the test card, and then place the brush in the waste bag for disposal. Once completed, send the test card to the lab for analysis. Your healthcare provider may ask you to collect more than one stool sample before submitting it to ensure accurate results.

Results & Reports

Within 1–2 weeks, your FIT sample will be analysed by a specialist. You’ll receive a detailed report showing whether any hidden blood was detected in your stool. If the result is normal, no further action may be needed, though your provider may recommend repeating the test periodically. If the result is positive, your provider will discuss next steps, which usually include further investigations such as a colonoscopy, to identify the cause and determine the most appropriate treatment or follow-up.