Fecal immunochemical test (fit)

This test checks for hidden blood in the stool. Your kit will explain how to collect a sample or test a small amount of stool. You'll return the kit to the doctor or to a lab. Or if your kit shows results at home and is positive for blood, contact your doctor right away.

This screening test is done to look for blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer or other types of gastrointestinal problems.

There are different types of home tests available. It's important to follow the instructions provided with any test.

Don't do the test during your menstrual period or if you are having bleeding from hemorrhoids.

Here are some general instructions:

• Check the expiration date on the package. Don't use a test kit after its expiration date.
• Follow the instructions exactly. Do all the steps in order, without skipping any of them.
• After you finish your test, follow the instructions that you were given for returning the test.

For a FIT test, you put a small sample of stool in a tube or on a card that comes with the kit. You return this to your doctor or a lab.

There is a FIT test that shows the results right away. If your test shows that blood was found in your stool sample, contact your doctor as soon as you can.