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This page is about 'How to use the bowel cancer screening FIT kit | NHS'
You may also find this page useful: Bowel cancer - Symptoms and signs to look out for
What is a bowel cancer screening test kit?
A bowel cancer screening test kit, also known as a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT), is a simple at-home test designed to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of bowel cancer or other bowel conditions.
Here's how a typical bowel cancer screening test kit works:
- Kit Contents: The kit usually contains everything needed to collect a small sample of stool at home. This may include a collection stick or brush, a sample collection tube or card, and instructions for use.
- Sample Collection: The individual collects a small sample of their stool using the collection stick or brush provided in the kit. The sample is usually obtained by wiping the stick or brush across the surface of the stool.
- Sample Application: The collected stool sample is then applied to a specific area on the sample collection tube or card, following the instructions provided in the kit. This may involve transferring the sample onto a designated section of the card or inserting the stick or brush into the collection tube.
- Return: Once the sample has been collected and applied to the collection device, the individual typically returns the completed kit by mail or to a designated drop-off location, as instructed in the kit.
- Laboratory Analysis: The collected stool sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to detect the presence of blood. In some cases, newer tests such as fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) may be used, which specifically detect human blood proteins, providing more accurate results.
- Results: After analysis, the individual will receive the results of the screening test. A negative result indicates that no blood was detected in the stool sample, while a positive result suggests the presence of blood and may warrant further investigation, such as additional diagnostic tests or a follow-up colonoscopy.
Bowel cancer screening test kits are recommended as part of national bowel cancer screening programs in many countries, including the UK, Australia, and several European countries. These programs aim to detect bowel cancer at an early stage when it is more treatable and may offer screening to eligible individuals within certain age groups. It's important for individuals to participate in bowel cancer screening programs as recommended by their healthcare providers to help detect bowel cancer early and improve treatment outcomes.
How to Use the Bowel Cancer Screening FIT Kit | NHS
Understanding the FIT Kit
The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a simple and effective way to screen for bowel cancer. It is offered free by the NHS to individuals between the ages of 60 and 74 in the UK. The test is designed to detect tiny amounts of blood in your stool which could indicate the early stages of bowel cancer or other conditions.Receiving Your FIT Kit
You will receive your FIT kit by post. The kit includes a sample bottle, instructions, and a prepaid return envelope. Make sure you carefully read the provided instructions before starting the test. It’s crucial to complete the test and return it promptly to ensure timely results.Collecting Your Stool Sample
1. **Prepare for Sample Collection**: Make sure you have everything you need close by, including the sample bottle and paper to catch the stool. 2. **Catch the Stool**: Use the paper provided to catch your stool before it touches the water in the toilet. This will make collecting the sample easier and ensures it remains uncontaminated. 3. **Collect the Sample**: Open the sample bottle and use the stick attached to its cap to take small samples from different parts of the stool. Insert the stick back into the bottle and close it tightly.Returning the FIT Kit
Place the completed sample bottle into the prepaid envelope and seal it securely. Post it as soon as possible, ideally on the same day. The NHS will analyze your sample and send you the results within a few weeks.Interpreting Your Results
The results will either show no signs of blood or indicate the presence of blood. If blood is detected, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer, but further tests will be required. You will be contacted for a follow-up appointment to discuss the next steps.Why Regular Screening Matters
Bowel cancer screening using the FIT kit can detect problems at an early stage before symptoms develop, making treatment more effective. Regular screening is crucial for early diagnosis and greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Make sure to participate in regular screening and encourage others to do the same. By following these steps, you can effectively use the FIT kit and contribute to your health and wellbeing. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact your GP or the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Helpline.Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FIT kit used for?
The FIT kit is used for bowel cancer screening. It detects small amounts of blood in your stool that may indicate the presence of abnormal growths or cancer.
How do I get a FIT kit?
You will receive a FIT kit through the post if you are eligible for bowel cancer screening. The NHS sends these kits to individuals aged 60-74 every two years.
What should I do if I didn't receive my FIT kit?
If you have not received your FIT kit, you can call the bowel cancer screening helpline at 0800 707 60 60 to request a new one.
Can I get a FIT kit if I am under 60 years old?
FIT kits are generally sent to individuals aged 60-74. If you are under 60 and experiencing symptoms or have a higher risk, consult your GP to discuss your options.
How do I use the FIT kit?
Follow the instructions provided in the kit. It involves collecting a small stool sample using the provided stick and returning it in the supplied container for testing.
How do I collect a stool sample?
Use the collection paper provided to catch your stool, then use the stick provided in the FIT kit to collect a small sample. Place the sample in the sample container and seal it.
Do I need any special preparation before using the FIT kit?
No special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink normally before collecting your stool sample.
How soon should I return the sample?
It’s best to return the sample as soon as possible after collection. Use the pre-paid envelope provided to send it to the laboratory.
Will I receive results from the FIT test?
Yes, you will receive your results by post within two weeks of sending your sample. Results will indicate whether further investigation is needed.
What do the FIT test results mean?
A 'normal' result means no blood was detected. An 'abnormal' result indicates blood was found, and further tests might be necessary to determine the cause.
What should I do if my test result is abnormal?
If your result is abnormal, you will be contacted by a specialist screening practitioner to discuss further tests, such as a colonoscopy.
Can I use the FIT kit if I have hemorrhoids?
Yes, you can still use the FIT kit. However, if you are bleeding heavily from hemorrhoids, it might affect the result. Contact the screening helpline for advice.
Are there any side effects of using the FIT kit?
There are no side effects of using the FIT kit. It is a simple, non-invasive test to collect a stool sample.
Is the FIT kit free of charge?
Yes, the FIT kit provided by the NHS is free for eligible individuals as part of the bowel cancer screening programme.
What should I do if I lose the FIT kit instructions?
If you lose the instructions, you can contact the bowel cancer screening helpline at 0800 707 60 60 for guidance or access the instructions online on the NHS website.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Bowel cancer - Symptoms and signs to look out for
- NHS - Bowel Cancer This page from the NHS provides comprehensive information on bowel cancer, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
- Cancer Research UK - Bowel Cancer Symptoms Cancer Research UK's page on bowel cancer symptoms details the various signs and symptoms to look out for, as well as information on early detection and when to see a doctor.
- Bowel Cancer UK - Symptoms Bowel Cancer UK's overview of symptoms provides important insights into the early warning signs of bowel cancer, along with advice on when to seek medical advice.
- Macmillan Cancer Support - Bowel Cancer Symptoms Macmillan Cancer Support offers a detailed guide on the symptoms of bowel cancer, emphasizing how to recognize the signs and understanding the importance of early diagnosis.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS North East London - Barbara’s Story Barbara’s Story is an educational resource used by NHS North East London to promote awareness about the experiences of vulnerable patients, particularly those with dementia, in healthcare settings.
- Alzheimer's Society UK - Barbara's Story in Dementia Education The Alzheimer’s Society uses Barbara’s Story as a key training tool to enhance understanding and empathy towards people with dementia, ensuring their voices and needs are better heard in medical care.
- Age UK - Barbara's Story: Enhancing Patient Experience Age UK includes Barbara's Story as part of its training resources, aimed at improving the quality of care for elderly patients, with a special focus on those suffering from cognitive impairments.
- Dementia UK - Learning Through the Lens of Barbara’s Story Dementia UK provides Barbara’s Story as a training video to healthcare professionals, to help develop a more empathetic understanding of the challenges faced by people living with dementia.
Useful links from: Taking a Genetic Family History - The Conversation (Bowel Cancer)
- NHS - Family History of Bowel Cancer This NHS page provides information on the causes of bowel cancer, including genetic factors and family history. It offers insights into hereditary risks and screening recommendations.
- Cancer Research UK - Bowel Cancer and Family History Cancer Research UK highlights the different risk factors for bowel cancer, focusing on genetic predispositions and the importance of family history in understanding individual risk levels.
- Bowel Cancer UK - Genetic Conditions Bowel Cancer UK provides detailed information on genetic conditions associated with a higher risk of developing bowel cancer. It offers resources for those with a family history and advice on genetic testing.
- Macmillan Cancer Support - Bowel Cancer Risk Factors Macmillan Cancer Support discusses the various risk factors for bowel cancer, with a focus on how family history and genetics can influence an individual's risk and the importance of early detection.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS - Mental Health Services Information about the mental health services provided by the NHS, including how to access them and what support is available.
- Mind - Mental Health Charity A UK-based charity offering advice and support to anyone experiencing a mental health problem.
- Rethink Mental Illness A charity that supports people who are affected by mental illness through advocacy, advice, and information.
- Samaritans - Providing Emotional Support A UK charity offering emotional support 24/7 to anyone who is dealing with distress or mental health issues.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- National Health Service (NHS) The NHS website provides information and advice on a wide range of health and care topics. You can find NHS services, check your symptoms, find out about treatments, and read health news and articles.
- Mind UK Mind is a mental health charity offering advice and support to anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They provide a range of resources including information on mental health conditions, where to get help, and ways to support others.
- Samaritans Samaritans is a charity dedicated to reducing feelings of isolation and disconnection that can lead to suicide. They offer 24/7 support to anyone in need, through a helpline, email, or face-to-face services.
- Rethink Mental Illness Rethink Mental Illness is a charity that aims to improve the lives of people severely affected by mental illness through local groups, expert advice, information, and campaigning for policy change.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS - Mental health and wellbeing The NHS provides a comprehensive guide on mental health conditions, including information on symptoms, treatments, and how to get help.
- Mind - For better mental health Mind is a UK-based charity offering advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.
- Rethink Mental Illness Rethink Mental Illness provides support and information for people affected by mental illness. They offer services and support groups, as well as campaigning for better mental health services.
- YoungMinds YoungMinds is a charity dedicated to children and young people's mental health. They offer resources for young people, parents, and professionals, and campaign for better mental health support.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS - Cervical Screening Information on cervical screening, who should have it, and how it is done from the National Health Service.
- Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust UK charity dedicated to women affected by cervical cancer and cervical abnormalities, offering support and information.
- NHS - Cancer Comprehensive resource about cancer, including types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments from the NHS.
- Macmillan Cancer Support A leading UK charity providing support to cancer patients and their families throughout diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS - Living with a Stoma Provides comprehensive guidance on living with a stoma, including practical advice on changing and caring for a stoma bag.
- Colostomy UK - Changing Your Stoma Bag Offers a detailed PDF guide on how to change your stoma bag, courtesy of Colostomy UK, a dedicated UK-based charity.
- Bladder & Bowel Community - Ostomy Guide Provides an extensive ostomy guide, including step-by-step instructions for changing a stoma bag, from a UK-based community support organization.
- NHS - Stoma Care Offers essential tips and best practices for stoma care, including advice and instructional videos on changing a stoma bag.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS - People Who Can Help This NHS page offers a list of mental health helplines and services for urgent support in the UK, which may be beneficial for individuals facing similar challenges as Wynne.
- Mind - For Better Mental Health Mind is a UK-based charity providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.
- Rethink Mental Illness Rethink Mental Illness provides expert advice and information to everyone affected by mental health problems. They offer extensive resources that can help individuals like Wynne cope with their conditions.
- Samaritans - Emotional Support Samaritans is a charity that provides confidential emotional support to those experiencing distress or despair. Their services could be a vital resource for anyone in need of urgent emotional assistance.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS - Mental Health and Wellbeing The NHS provides comprehensive information and support for mental health and wellbeing, including symptoms, treatments, and advice on managing stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Mind - Mental Health Charity Mind is a UK-based charity that offers advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They also campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.
- Rethink Mental Illness Rethink Mental Illness is a charity that provides expert, accredited advice and information to everyone affected by mental health issues. They offer a wide range of support services, including helplines, support groups, and resources.
- Samaritans Samaritans is a UK charity that offers emotional support to anyone in distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide. Their helpline is available 24/7 to provide confidential support.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS: Mental Health Services This NHS page provides comprehensive information on accessing mental health services, including where to get help and what types of services are available.
- Mind: Mental Health Support Mind is a UK charity offering advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. It also campaigns to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.
- Samaritans: Emotional Support Samaritans is a UK charity offering confidential emotional support to anyone in distress or struggling to cope, available 24/7 via their helpline.
- Rethink Mental Illness Rethink Mental Illness is a UK charity that provides expert, accredited advice and information to everyone affected by mental health problems, supporting recovery and improving the lives of those with mental illness.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS Mental Health and Wellbeing Comprehensive resource for mental health and wellbeing, providing information on conditions, treatments, and where to get help.
- Mind - For Better Mental Health UK charity offering information and support for people experiencing mental health problems. Provides advice, helplines, and local services.
- Samaritans A UK charity dedicated to reducing feelings of isolation and disconnection that can lead to suicide. Offers 24/7 support through their hotline.
- Rethink Mental Illness Provides information, services, and a strong voice for everyone affected by mental illness, challenging attitudes, and changing lives.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS: Mental health services - Where to get urgent help for mental health Provides information on how to get urgent help for mental health problems, including contact details and what to do in a mental health crisis.
- Mind: Paul's Story A personal account of Paul's experiences with mental health challenges, offering insights and hope for others facing similar issues.
- Samaritans: How we can help Offers emotional support to anyone in distress or struggling to cope, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
- Rethink Mental Illness: Our personal experiences Contains personal accounts from individuals living with mental illness, aiming to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS - Mental Health Information and support for mental health issues provided by the NHS, including resources for managing conditions and accessing services.
- Mind Mind is a UK-based charity that offers advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. It also campaigns to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.
- Rethink Mental Illness Rethink Mental Illness helps millions of people affected by mental illness by providing expert, accredited advice and information, tailored support, and campaigning for change.
- Samaritans Samaritans provides emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS - Mental Health and Wellbeing Official NHS resource for mental health, including a range of support services, self-help guides, and advice on managing mental wellbeing.
- Mind - Mental Health Charity Leading UK mental health charity offering information, advice, and resources to help those experiencing mental health issues. Provides support groups and an extensive library of information.
- Rethink Mental Illness Provides expert, accredited advice and information to everyone affected by mental health problems. Focuses on severe mental illnesses and offers support, services, and advice.
- Samaritans A confidential emotional support service for anyone in the UK and Ireland. Available 24/7 through various means including phone, email, and face-to-face.
Useful links from: Danny's Story
- NHS - Danny's Story Learn about Danny’s Story on the NHS website, which highlights the journey and experiences of individuals with autism.
- National Autistic Society - Real Stories Explore Danny’s story on the National Autistic Society’s website, focusing on real-life accounts of people on the autism spectrum.
- Mind - Stories and Experiences Read about Danny’s experience with mental health on the Mind charity website, offering support and insights for those affected.
- YoungMinds - Mental Health Stories Find Danny’s story on the YoungMinds website, which shares the personal journeys of young people dealing with mental health challenges.
Useful links from: Bowel Cancer
- NHS - Barbara's Story An overview of Barbara's Story, which is an initiative aimed at educating healthcare professionals on the effects of dementia through a series of video narratives.
- Alzheimer's Society - Barbara’s Story and Dementia Training Information provided by the Alzheimer's Society on Barbara's Story, including its use in dementia training to improve understanding and empathy among healthcare staff.
- King’s Health Partners - Barbara's Story King’s Health Partners' page on Barbara's Story, detailing its significance and the impact it has had on dementia care and training within the NHS.
- Dementia UK - Barbara’s Story Dementia UK’s resources on Barbara's Story, exploring how the narrative approach is used to enhance the care of people with dementia and support their families.
Useful links from: Dr Philippa Kaye's story
- NHS - Health A-Z Comprehensive guide to conditions, symptoms, and treatments provided by the NHS.
- Macmillan Cancer Support UK charity offering support and information to those affected by cancer.
- Cancer Research UK UK-based cancer research and awareness charity, providing detailed information on cancer types, symptoms, and treatments.
- Mind UK Leading mental health charity in the UK providing advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.
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