Receiving a positive FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) or stool test result can be worrying. It is natural to wonder whether the result means something serious or if further testing is really necessary. The good news is that a positive FIT test does not automatically mean you have colorectal cancer. It simply means that small amounts of blood have been detected in your stool, and the source of the bleeding should be investigated.
At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) Dubai, our gastroenterology specialists provide comprehensive evaluation for patients with positive stool tests, helping identify the underlying cause and recommending the most appropriate treatment when needed.
A FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) is a simple, non-invasive screening test that detects hidden (occult) blood in the stool. Since bleeding from the digestive tract is often invisible to the naked eye, the FIT test helps identify people who may benefit from further investigation.
This test is commonly used as part of routine colon cancer screening, especially for adults who have no symptoms but are at average risk of colorectal disease.
A positive FIT result simply indicates that blood has been detected in the stool. The bleeding may come from several different conditions, including:
While many causes are non-cancerous and easily treated, it is important to identify the exact source of bleeding through further evaluation.
A colonoscopy is considered the most accurate investigation after a positive FIT test because it allows the doctor to directly examine the lining of the colon and rectum.
Unlike stool tests, colonoscopy does not simply detect bleeding—it helps determine exactly where it is coming from.
During the procedure, your gastroenterologist can:
No. Many patients with a positive FIT result are ultimately diagnosed with conditions that are not cancer.
Common non-cancerous causes include hemorrhoids, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or benign colon polyps. However, because colorectal cancer may also cause hidden bleeding without noticeable symptoms, doctors strongly recommend a colonoscopy to rule out serious disease and allow early treatment if necessary.
Before your procedure, you will receive instructions to empty your bowel using a special preparation solution. Proper bowel preparation is essential because it allows the doctor to clearly examine the colon.
During the colonoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is gently passed through the rectum to inspect the entire large intestine. The procedure is usually performed under sedation to ensure comfort.
If polyps are found, they can often be removed immediately using specialized instruments passed through the colonoscope. Tissue samples (biopsies) can also be collected if necessary.
Most patients recover quickly after a colonoscopy. Mild bloating or gas may occur temporarily due to the air used during the examination. Because sedation is commonly given, someone should accompany you home, and you should avoid driving until the effects have completely worn off.
Your gastroenterologist will explain the findings after the procedure and discuss whether additional treatment or follow-up is required.
Yes. One of the greatest advantages of colonoscopy is that it is both a diagnostic and preventive procedure.
Many colorectal cancers develop from small growths called polyps over several years. Detecting and removing these polyps during colonoscopy can significantly reduce the future risk of developing colorectal cancer.
If you receive a positive FIT result, arrange an appointment with a gastroenterology specialist as soon as possible. You should seek prompt medical evaluation if you also experience: