Understanding Fecal Occult Blood (FIT) Test Results
Learn about the fecal occult blood test, normal values, and what they mean for your health.
Check your result
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is below the typical adult range (0–10 µg Hb/g).
is within the typical adult range (0–10 µg Hb/g).
is above the typical adult range (0–10 µg Hb/g).
This number is very far from the usual range - check which unit your report uses.
A value this far outside the range is worth discussing with your doctor today.
What a low result usually means
What a high result usually means
The range printed on your own report comes first - it differs between laboratories. This is not a diagnosis.
See it next to the rest of your report - upload it for a free, private explanationFree. Sign up with your email - no password, we send you a code.The fecal occult blood test (FIT) is a common screening tool used to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early indicator of bowel cancer. Understanding the test results can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your health.
What is the Fecal Occult Blood Test?
The fecal occult blood test (FIT) is a non-invasive test that detects hidden (occult) blood in the stool. It is used primarily as a screening tool for colorectal cancer. The test measures the amount of hemoglobin (Hb), a protein in red blood cells, in your stool sample. The presence of blood in the stool can be a sign of various conditions, including polyps, hemorrhoids, or cancer.
Why the FIT Test Matters
The FIT test is an important part of colorectal cancer screening. Early detection of blood in the stool can be crucial for identifying cancer at an early stage when it is more treatable. Regular screening with the FIT test can help reduce the risk of dying from colorectal cancer by catching it early.
Normal Values and Interpretation
The typical reference range for the fecal occult blood test in adults is 0 to 10 µg Hb/g. Results are usually reported as either positive or negative based on a threshold around 10 µg Hb/g. If your test result is below this threshold, it is considered negative, indicating no significant amount of blood is detected in your stool. A result above this threshold is considered positive, suggesting further investigation may be needed.
Factors Affecting FIT Test Results
Several factors can affect the results of a FIT test. Dietary factors, such as the consumption of red meat or certain vegetables, can influence older guaiac-based tests, but they do not affect FIT. However, the FIT test is generally considered more specific than older tests, like the guaiac-based fecal occult blood test, because it only reacts to human hemoglobin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a positive FIT test mean? A positive FIT test indicates that there is blood in your stool above the threshold of 10 µg Hb/g. This does not necessarily mean you have cancer, but further testing is often recommended to determine the cause.
How often should I take the FIT test? The frequency of FIT testing can vary based on your risk factors and healthcare provider's recommendations. It is commonly recommended annually for average-risk adults starting at age 50.
Can diet affect my FIT test results? Unlike some other stool tests, the FIT test is not significantly affected by diet, as it specifically detects human hemoglobin.
What should I do if my FIT test is positive? If your test is positive, your healthcare provider will likely recommend additional tests, such as a colonoscopy, to investigate the source of the bleeding.
When to see a doctor
You should consult your healthcare provider if your FIT test result is positive. This result suggests there is blood in your stool, and further evaluation is necessary to determine the cause. Additionally, if you experience symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or abdominal pain, you should seek medical advice.
Please note that this information is not medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for medical decisions.