FIT Test
The bowel cancer screening programme in England adopted the ‘simple to use’ FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test for haemoglobin)in 2019, replacing the gFOBT test. This test is much improved and requires just one faecal (poo) sample to detect the presence of very small quantities of blood. The adjustable sensitivity of the FIT test is further advantage. A GP testing a patient with symptoms of colon cancer (for instance) uses a test of greater sensitivity than for participants in the screening programme.
What is the test for?
Blood in poo may be a sign of polyps or bowel cancer. Polyps are growths in the bowel. They are not cancer, but over time some turn into cancer. Anyone registered with a GP and of an eligible age automatically receives two-yearly invitations to be screened with the FIT test. Everything you need is in the box, including instructions and packaging for returning your sample for testing. This strange birthday gift is potentially life-saving! You will receive an invitation to a screening clinic if the FIT test detects blood to discuss your results and decide whether further investigations are necessary.
Our expert says…
Former GUTS trustee Professor Stephen Halloran was closely involved in developing and setting up the National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme in the UK. Stephen went on to advise other countries throughout the world on introducing screening programmes.
Stephen identified the value of FIT and recommended its use internationally in colon cancer screening programmes. He said:
“The screening programmes in the UK have proven to be a wonderful success and have saved thousands of lives. Our change to the very simple and sensitive FIT device has transformed the programme. It is so easy to use and a very sensitive marker of the presence of early cancer. FIT based bowel cancer screening programmes have been adopted across the world. We should be proud that this local initiative has contributed to saving lives internationally!
“Why would you not do a FIT screening test if invited by the screening programme? Unfortunately, in England 30% of eligible people still don’t take up the invitation!”
