Summary

A faecal occult blood test (FOBT) is a simple test that takes a sample of your stool and checks for blood, which can be an early sign of bowel cancer. If the FOBT is positive for blood, more tests are done to find out what has caused the bleeding. Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths and a FOBT can find colorectal cancer early when treatment is more effective.

Why get tested?

FOBT is offered as a screening test for the early detection of bowel cancer in people who do not have symptoms of bowel cancer. The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommend FOBT screening every two years for people over 50. If you have symptoms of bowel cancer you should see your doctor without delay. The FOBT checks for small amounts of blood that are not visible by eye. A positive FOB test will tell your doctor that you have bleeding occurring somewhere in your gastrointestinal tract. This blood loss could be due to several causes. 

Having the test

Sample

Usually three samples of Stool, each collected on different days.Your doctor or laboratory will give you a collection kit. The FOBT kit contains an instruction sheet that should be carefully followed on how to collect and store the samples. Usually, you will collect all samples then return them to your doctor/laboratory at the same time, or by posting them in a package provided in the kit.

Any preparation?

None

Your results

The FOBT result is negative for most people.  A positive result indicates that blood has been detected in the stool. This bleeding can be due to many different things and does not necessarily indicate cancer. A positive test may be followed up with a further test, usually colonoscopy, to find the source of the bleeding. 

Questions to ask your doctor

The choice of tests your doctor makes will be based on your medical history and symptoms.   It is important that you tell them everything you think might help. 

You play a central role in making sure your test results are accurate. Do everything you can to make sure the information you provide is correct and follow instructions closely. 

Talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking. Find out if you need to fast or stop any particular foods or supplements. These may affect your results. Ask:

• Why does this test need to be done? 
• Do I need to prepare (such as fast or avoid medications) for the sample collection?
• Will an abnormal result mean I need further tests?
• How could it change the course of my care?
• What will happen next, after the test?

Any more to know?

Several different types of FOBT kits are available through your local chemist. Their sensitivity in detecting blood in the stool can vary between kit manufacturers.  For advice on the best kit to use ask your pharmacist or GP. Consult your GP if you are concerned about bowel cancer and think you need the test.  You may need screening more often if you have risk factors for colorectal cancer including a family history and cigarette smoking.  

More information

Pathology and diagnostic imaging reports can be added to your My Health Record. 

You and your healthcare provider can now access your results whenever and wherever needed.Get further trustworthy health information and advice from healthdirect.