I Got a Positive Bowel Screening Result: Now What?
Receiving notification or seeing the sign on an at-home test that your bowel screening was “positive” or “abnormal” can feel like the world has suddenly shifted under your feet. It’s normal for your mind to jump to the worst-case scenario.
But it’s important to remember: a positive result is not necessarily a cancer diagnosis. In fact, for many people, a positive screening is the best “biological heads-up” they could receive. It is a tool for prevention, not just detection. Here is a breakdown of what a positive fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) result indicates and why it’s important for managing your health long term.
Understanding a Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
A Fecal Immunochemical Test is designed to be sensitive. It looks for occult blood (tiny traces of human hemoglobin) that the naked eye cannot detect.
A FIT test is like a smoke detector for your gut:
- It can detect “smoke” (microscopic blood).
- It cannot tell you the “source” of the smoke.
- Just because the alarm goes off doesn’t mean there is a fire; it just means it’s time to check the kitchen.
Common (Non-Cancerous) Causes of a Positive FIT Result
It’s common for a FIT to detect blood from benign, treatable issues. These are often referred to as “false-positive” factors regarding cancer, and they include:
- Hemorrhoids (piles): Swollen veins that can bleed slightly during a bowel movement.
- Anal Fissures: Tiny tears in the lining of the anus.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Minor inflammation or irritation in the lower bowel.
If you get a positive test, it’s important to consult your health care professional immediately to determine the cause.
Why a Positive FIT Result is Helpful
A Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) opens a “window of opportunity” for early detection, providing the critical time needed to address concerns before they become serious.
1. It Finds Issues Before They Become Cancer
Most bowel cancers start as polyps (small growths). At this stage, they aren’t cancerous yet, but they can bleed. If a colonoscopy finds these polyps, a doctor can often remove them right then and there. In some cases, this can stop cancer before it even starts.
For more info on common signs of bowel cancer, read our blog here.
2. Early Detection Changes Outcomes
If something significant is found, catching it at “Stage 1” (early detection) usually makes treatment more straightforward and leads to better outcomes. By acting on a screening result rather than waiting for symptoms to appear, you give yourself the best chance of recovery.
You’ve Had a Positive At-Home Result, What Now?
If your at-home FIT result is positive, here is what will happen next:
- Book a GP Appointment: You will need to see your GP to discuss the result and discuss the next steps.
- Referral: You will be referred to a specialist or hospital for a colonoscopy to check for polyps or cancer.
- Colonoscopy: A specialist uses a thin, flexible camera to examine your bowel.
- Polyps/Biopsy: If small growths (polyps) are found, they are usually removed to prevent them from becoming cancerous. If any suspicious areas are found, a small tissue sample (biopsy) is taken for testing.
- Results: The removed polyps or biopsies are sent to a lab for testing. You will then be contacted with the results from this test.
To find out more about bowel screening, visit the Bowel Cancer NZ website here.
Early Detection for Better Health Outcomes
If you receive a positive screening, act early and book an appointment to see your doctor.
The Smith BioMed Bowel Screening Kit is a simple-to-use, at-home test that provides fast and accurate results. Tests are available at the Chemist Warehouse and pharmacies nationwide.