What is a Fecal Occult Blood Test?

A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) looks at a sample of your stool (poop) to check for blood. Occult blood means that you can't see it with the naked eye. And fecal means that it is in your stool.

What is it used for?

A fecal occult blood test is commonly used as a screening test to help find colorectal cancer before you have symptoms. The test also has other uses. It may be done when there is concern about bleeding in the digestive tract from other conditions.

Why do I need a fecal occult blood test?

Your health care provider may order a fecal occult blood test if you have symptoms of a condition that could involve bleeding in your digestive tract. Or you may have the test to screen for colorectal cancer when you don't have any symptoms

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SPECIMEN COLLECTION AND STORAGE:

1. Collect stool specimen by using the sample collection tube provided.
2. Unscrew the top of the sample collection tube, take out the sample collection stick and collect the specimen by dipping the stick into 3 different places of the stool specimen.
3. Replace the stick in the sample collection tube and screw tightly.

TEST PROCEDURE:

1. Bring the pouched test device to room temperature (15-30ºC) prior to testing. Do not open the pouch until ready to perform the assay.
2. Remove the test device from the sealed pouch.
3. Specimen collection. Please see "SPECIMEN COLLECTION AND STORAGE".
4. Shake the sample collection tube well.
5. Holding the sample collection tube upright, carefully break off the tip of collection tube.
6. Squeeze 3 drops of sample solution into the sample well "S" .
7. Read results between 5-10 minutes. Do not read results after 10 minutes.