Lab Reports Decoded

Positive FIT Test: What It Means & Next Steps (Video)

1:54 minWatch on YouTube

Read the full written guide: Stool Occult Blood Test (FIT) for Adults: What Positive Means →

Find out what a positive stool occult blood test really tells you and why it isn’t a cancer diagnosis. We break down the science, the common reasons for a positive result, and the essential next step you should take.

This quick guide helps you understand the FIT, how to collect a sample, and when to see a doctor. Remember, this is general information, not medical advice.

Show the full transcript

Transcript

A positive FIT isn’t cancer, what does it really mean?

A positive FIT isn’t cancer, what does it really mean?

FIT Test Basics

Learn why a positive FIT isn’t cancer, what it actually detects, and the one step you should take next to find the source and why a colonoscopy is the definitive follow-up.

What occult blood means

Occult means hidden. Tiny amounts of blood leak into stool without changing its look, and the FIT hunt for haemoglobin, the red protein inside each cell, helping spot early polyps.

FIT vs old test

FIT uses antibodies that only recognize human haemoglobin, so no diet changes are needed before the sample. It focuses on lower-bowel bleeding, unlike the old guaiac test that reacts to meat and some vegetables.

Screening age range

Most screening programs invite adults between about 45 and 75 years of age to take the FIT, catching issues before symptoms appear. Regular testing can dramatically improve early detection.

Screening interval

Typically the test is repeated every one to two years, depending on local guidelines and personal risk factors, to keep an eye on any new bleeding.

What can cause a positive

Common reasons for a positive FIT include piles or anal fissures, polyps in the large bowel, inflammation such as colitis, and diverticular disease, especially as we age.

The one step to take

The key next step is to talk to your doctor about scheduling a colonoscopy, the only procedure that can locate the bleed, remove polyps, and give peace of mind.

How to collect sample

Collect the stool sample without changing your diet or stopping medicines. Catch the stool on clean paper, scrape the tip of the kit stick across several spots, then seal the tube tightly.

Like, subscribe and comment

Useful? Like and subscribe, and tell us in the comments what we should check next.

Read the full guide

The full guide is on thecareonline.com. General information only, so check with your doctor for your own case.

Nothing on The Care Online is medical advice. Traditional practices are described as tradition, not as fact. Take a persistent or serious concern to a qualified professional. See how videos and posts are made on our methodology page.