Colon Cancer Screening: Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) for Occult Blood
This test detects hidden (occult) blood in your stool, which may signal early signs of colon cancer or other gastrointestinal issues. It’s a simple, painless way to screen for problems that might not cause obvious symptoms.
["A simple stool test to help find early signs of colon cancer or other blood-related gastrointestinal issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 104936-0
- Short code
- Noninv colon ca RNA+occ bld scrn Stl Q
- Synonyms
- Noninv colon ca RNA+occ bld scrn Stl Q
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Colon cancer is often detected early through regular screening, which can save lives. This test helps identify small amounts of blood in your stool that might not be visible but could indicate bleeding from the colon or rectum. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment.
How the Test Works
The test uses a special chemical to detect hidden blood in your stool. You’ll collect a small sample at home and return it to the lab. The lab then analyzes the sample to check for blood, which can signal potential issues like polyps, inflammation, or cancer.
What to Expect Before the Test
You can prepare for this test by avoiding certain foods or medications that might interfere with results, such as red meat, vitamin C supplements, or certain pain relievers. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.
What to Expect During the Test
This test is simple and painless. You’ll collect a small sample of your stool using a provided kit and return it to your doctor’s office or lab. No special equipment is needed, and the process usually takes just a few minutes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results may indicate the presence of colon cancer or other gastrointestinal bleeding. However, false positives can also occur, so further testing (such as a colonoscopy) may be needed to confirm the cause. Negative results mean no visible blood was detected in this sample, but ongoing screening is still important.
Short name
FIT Occult Blood
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
What if I have a negative result?
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy