Fecal Occult Blood Test
Also known as: FOBT; Stool occult blood; Hemoccult; Guaiac smear test; gFOBT; Immunochemical FOBT; Immunoassay FOBT; iFOBT; Fecal immunochemical test; FIT
Formal name: Fecal Occult Blood Test
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
To screen for gastrointestinal bleeding, which may be an indicator of colon cancer
When to Get Tested?
As part of a routine examination to screen for colon cancer; many organizations recommend annually beginning at age 50; as directed by your doctor based on family medical history
Sample Required?
One or more stool samples
Test Preparation Needed?
Your doctor may instruct you to avoid certain medications and follow certain dietary restrictions for several days before collecting the FOBT samples.
