Faecal occult blood detection


What is colo-rectal screening?

It is a simple and painless test detecting the presence of faecal occult blood - that is the blood in stools which is not seen with a naked eye. The test consists of the collection of a small sample of faeces that is placed in a test-tube with a stick.

Why screen for bowel cancer?

In Tuscany colo-rectal cancer is the second most common tumour in women after breast cancer, and the third in men, after prostate and lung cancer. One of the earliest signs of this tumour is the presence of occult blood in stools that may precede the onset of any other symptom by years. If diagnosed at an early stage, this tumour may be cured.

When should I have the test?

Men and women aged 50 to 75 receive a letter from their Local Health Authority inviting them to have the test every two years. The test is advised even in the absence of symptoms.

Why only people aged 50 to 70?

This disease is more frequent after the age of 50, when you are supposed to attend for screening for the first time. After 70, you are no longer invited and should ask your doctor to prescribe the test every two years.

Can I have the test even if I don't fall into the eligible age range?

Your general practitioner may prescribe the test at any age, if there are the appropriate indications.

How much does it cost?

The screening test is free of charge after the age of 50 if the National Health System has not already paid for this test during the two previous years.

How do I collect the sample?

To collect the sample you simply follow the instructions in the letter you have received from your Local Health Authority. You can complete the test at home, using the kit (test-tube and stick) sent out by your Local Health Authority. No special diet is required before the test.

Why a single sample is required and not three?

The old test used three samples, but this screening test is much more reliable and sensitive even to very minor bleeding. One sample is enough.

Is a General Practitioner's prescription required?

A General Practitioner's prescription is not required if you have received the invitation letter from your Local Health Authority.

Can I directly make an appointment for the test?

No, you will receive a letter from your Local Health Authority that invites the eligible population every two years.

Is it possible to be given leave from work to have the test?

Yes, on your request.

May I take drugs before the test?

Yes, drugs do not influence test results.

What should I do after collecting the stool sample?

After following the instructions enclosed with the test kit, take the test-tube to the collection centre as soon as possible, and keep it in the fridge in the meanwhile.

Can I change the time and date of my appointment?

Yes, in the invitation lettere there are all the necessary instructions to change your appointment.

How accurate is the test?

Scientific evidence tells us that the faecal occult blood test is effective for the early detection of colo-rectal cancer and therefore may save many lives. Like any other test, this test too has some limits: it is possible that an early stage tumour or a polyp does not cause any fecal bleeding. It is possible that a small tumour or polyp may not bleed on the test day, or bleeds too little to be dectected in the screening test. For this reason it is fundamental to repeat the test every two years. If in the meanwhile you have rectal bleeding episodes or persistent bowel disorders, consult your general practitioner.

How do I receive the test results?

If the test is negative, you will receive the results by mail. If the result is equivocal, the screening centre will call you to arrange further investigation.

If I'm called by the centre for further investigation, what other tests should I have?

The next step is colonoscopy, an examination of the internal walls of the rectum and colon. The recall should not worry you: in 70% of cases the result is normal. If a polyp is detected, it may be treated and removed during colonoscopy.

And while waiting for the next call?

Even if the test result is negative, in case of persistent bowel disorders or faecal bleeding, you should see your general practitioner.

What is a colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy involves the introduction of a flexible tube (colonoscope) into the anus, to directly look at the lining of the large bowel (colon). It takes about 20 to 30 minutes and is generally well-tolerated. It is both a diagnostic and therapeutic investigation, because it can detect and remove polyps.

One of my family members has a colon tumour, what should I do?

Colon cancer is very frequent, therefore having a first-degree relative (a parent, brother/sister or child) with this tumour may be common without this involving a higher risk. In any case, consult your general practitioner to receive all the necessary information and explanations.

back to top