What is a fecal occult blood test (FOBT)?
A fecal occult blood test is a screening that looks for hidden (occult) blood in stool (poop). The test can identify tiny traces of blood that you can’t see on your own. It helps healthcare providers diagnose several health conditions.
What does a fecal occult blood test show?
Blood in the stool means there’s bleeding happening somewhere in your digestive tract. This type of bleeding isn’t normal and is usually a sign of a health condition, such as:
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- Anemia, when your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells.
- Colitis, inflammation or irritation in your colon.
- Colorectal cancer, cancer that occurs in the lower part of your colon or rectum.
- Diverticulosis, an expanded, bubble-like area on your colon wall.
- Hemorrhoids, swollen veins inside your rectum or outside your anus.
- Colon polyps, a flat, raised or stalk-like growth on your colon or rectal lining.
- Ulcers, sores that develop in the digestive tract or rectum.
What is the purpose of a fecal occult blood test?
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If you have certain symptoms, such as abdominal pain, fatigue, pain around your rectum or rectal bleeding, your healthcare provider may recommend a fecal occult blood test. The most common reason for an FOBT is to screen for colorectal cancer.
On its own, a fecal occult blood test can’t diagnose colorectal cancer or any digestive issue. Depending on the results of your FOBT, you may need more testing to confirm a diagnosis.
Should I get a fecal occult blood test regularly?
For people between 45 and 75 who are at average risk of colorectal cancer, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends regular screening. You’ll do the test once a year. If you’re older than 75 or have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer, talk to your provider about the screening schedule that’s right for you.
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If you’re unsure what your risk level is, your healthcare provider can help you figure out how often you should get screened.
Who performs a fecal occult blood procedure?
You can perform the FOBT at home. You then send the completed test kit to your provider or laboratory by dropping it off or mailing it.
You can also collect your stool sample at home without testing it. You then send the sample to a laboratory to complete the screening.
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