Fecal immunochemical test

A fecal immunochemical test (FIT) uses antibodies to find tiny amounts of hemoglobin in your stool. Hemoglobin is a protein in your blood. FIT looks for blood from the lower digestive tract but not from the upper digestive tract. This test is recommended every year.

How you take the test:

• You don't need to prepare for this test. You can eat, drink and take your medicines as usual before you collect a stool sample.
• The kit typically includes everything you need to complete the test, including instructions. The test kit may include a stick or brush that you use to collect the sample.
• You collect a stool sample from one bowel movement. After you collect the stool sample, place the sample in a container that comes with the test kit.
• Return the container to a lab for testing, often by mail. Send it within 24 hours.