IBS does not typically cause bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, which is what the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is designed to detect. This article will explore why IBS might be suspected but is not directly linked to a positive FIT test.
If you are unsure about whether your IBS has led to a positive fit test or have other questions related to your gut health we offer gut health testing in the UK which can be very beneficial if you decide after reading the article that this is something you would be interested in. We even offer a free introductory call to help determine a suitable treatment plan for your gut health symptoms.
This article explores the relationship between IBS and a positive FIT test. We will discuss whether IBS can cause a positive FIT test, what other conditions might lead to a positive result, and the steps to take following your FIT test results. By understanding the nuances of these diagnostic tools, it is hoped you will feel better equipped to navigate your health concerns and seek appropriate medical advice.
You may also want to take a look at our other article Can IBS cause blood in stools?
IBS and FIT Test Results: Understanding the Connection
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterised by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and constipation. However, IBS does not typically cause bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, which is what the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is designed to detect. Here’s why IBS might be suspected but is not directly linked to a positive FIT test:
Symptom Overlap: Some symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits, overlap with symptoms of other gastrointestinal conditions that can cause bleeding, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colorectal cancer. This symptom overlap might lead to initial suspicion of IBS when blood is not visibly apparent.
Lack of Structural Changes: Unlike conditions such as colorectal cancer or colitis, IBS does not cause structural abnormalities in the intestines. A positive FIT test indicates the presence of blood, suggesting a structural change or lesion that is not characteristic of IBS.
Misinterpretation of Symptoms: Patients with IBS may experience severe discomfort and seek medical advice, leading to comprehensive testing. While their primary symptoms are not due to bleeding, the thorough investigation might include a FIT test as part of a broader diagnostic approach, especially to rule out other conditions.
Understanding the FIT Test
What is a FIT Test?
The Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a non-invasive screening tool used to detect hidden (occult) blood in the stool. It is primarily used to screen for colorectal cancer and other significant gastrointestinal conditions. The test is designed to identify small amounts of blood that are not visible to the naked eye, helping to detect potential problems early when they are more treatable.
How Does the FIT Test Work?
The FIT test works by using antibodies to detect the presence of human haemoglobin (a component of blood) in the stool. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how the FIT test is performed:
- Sample Collection: The individual collects a small sample of their stool using a special kit provided by their healthcare provider. The kit includes detailed instructions on how to collect and store the sample.
- Laboratory Analysis: The collected stool sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is tested for the presence of human haemoglobin. The test is highly specific to human blood, reducing the likelihood of false positives caused by animal blood from dietary sources.
- Results Interpretation: The laboratory analyses the sample and provides a result. If the test detects blood in the stool, it is considered positive. If no blood is detected, the result is negative.
What Does a Positive FIT Test Indicate?
A positive FIT test indicates that there is blood in the stool. This finding requires further investigation to determine the source of the bleeding. It’s important to note that a positive FIT test does not diagnose a specific condition; it simply signals that further diagnostic procedures, such as a colonoscopy, are needed to identify the cause of the bleeding.
Several conditions can cause a positive FIT test, including:
– Colorectal Cancer: The primary purpose of the FIT test is to screen for colorectal cancer. Blood in the stool can be an early sign of cancerous growths in the colon or rectum.
– Polyps: Benign or precancerous polyps in the colon can also cause bleeding and lead to a positive FIT test.
– Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
– Diverticulosis: Small pouches (diverticula) that form in the wall of the colon can bleed, leading to a positive FIT test.
– Gastrointestinal Infections: Certain infections can cause bleeding in the digestive tract.
While IBS can cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily life, it does not typically cause bleeding in the stool. Therefore, a positive FIT test is not usually associated with IBS but rather suggests other underlying conditions that need to be investigated. This article will further explore these connections and provide guidance on the appropriate steps to take following a positive FIT test.
Can a FIT Test Detect IBS?
Why a FIT Test is Not Used to Diagnose IBS
The Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is specifically designed to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal conditions that cause bleeding. IBS, on the other hand, is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterised by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and constipation. Importantly, IBS does not cause structural abnormalities or bleeding in the intestines.
Since the FIT test is focused on detecting blood, it is not a suitable tool for diagnosing IBS. IBS does not typically involve blood in the stool, and a positive FIT test would suggest the presence of another condition that causes bleeding, rather than IBS.
The Primary Diagnostic Tools for IBS
Diagnosing IBS involves a combination of clinical evaluation, symptom assessment, and the exclusion of other conditions. The primary diagnostic tools for IBS include:
Medical History and Symptom Assessment
Doctors begin by taking a detailed medical history and asking about the patient’s symptoms. They look for patterns and triggers, such as specific foods or stress, that may be associated with symptom flare-ups.
Common symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, or both).
Rome Criteria
The Rome Criteria are a set of guidelines used to diagnose functional gastrointestinal disorders, including IBS. According to the Rome IV criteria, IBS is diagnosed based on the presence of recurrent abdominal pain, on average, at least one day per week in the last three months, associated with two or more of the following:
– Pain related to defecation.
– A change in the frequency of stool.
– A change in the form (appearance) of stool.
Physical Examination
A physical examination helps rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms. This may include abdominal palpation to check for tenderness or unusual masses.
Exclusion of Other Conditions
To confirm an IBS diagnosis, doctors often perform tests to exclude other gastrointestinal disorders. These tests may include:
– Blood tests to check for infections, inflammation, or anaemia.
– Stool tests to rule out infections, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or other conditions.
– Colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy to visually examine the colon and rule out structural abnormalities like polyps, cancer, or diverticular disease.
Additional Tests if Needed
In some cases, additional tests such as breath tests (to check for lactose intolerance or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), abdominal imaging (ultrasound, CT scan), or motility tests may be performed to further evaluate symptoms.
In summary, while the FIT test is valuable for detecting conditions that cause bleeding in the digestive tract, it is not used to diagnose IBS. Instead, a thorough evaluation involving symptom assessment, exclusion of other conditions, and adherence to diagnostic criteria is essential for accurately diagnosing IBS.
What Conditions Can Cause a Positive FIT Test?
A positive Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) result indicates the presence of hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of various gastrointestinal conditions. While the test is primarily used to screen for colorectal cancer, other conditions can also cause bleeding in the digestive tract, leading to a positive result. It’s important to understand these conditions to appreciate the significance of a positive FIT test and the need for further diagnostic evaluation.
Colorectal Cancer
Description: Colorectal cancer is a malignant tumour that develops in the colon or rectum. It often starts as benign polyps that can become cancerous over time.
Symptoms: Symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, weight loss, and fatigue. Early stages may have no symptoms, which is why screening tests like FIT are crucial.
How It Causes a Positive FIT Test: Tumours can bleed, releasing small amounts of blood into the stool that the FIT test detects.
Polyps
Description: Polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While most polyps are benign, some can develop into cancer.
Symptoms: Polyps often do not cause symptoms but can occasionally cause bleeding, which may be detected by a FIT test.
How They Cause a Positive FIT Test: Polyps can erode and bleed, leading to detectable blood in the stool.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Description: IBD encompasses conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms: Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhoea (often with blood), weight loss, and fatigue.
How It Causes a Positive FIT Test: Inflammation and ulceration of the intestinal lining can cause bleeding, resulting in a positive FIT test.
Colitis
Description: Colitis refers to inflammation of the colon, which can be due to various causes, including infections, autoimmune reactions, and ischaemic injury.
Symptoms: Symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhoea (possibly with blood), and urgency.
How It Causes a Positive FIT Test: The inflammation can lead to bleeding in the colon, detectable by the FIT test.
Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis
Description: Diverticulosis involves the formation of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall. Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed or infected.
Symptoms: Diverticulosis often has no symptoms, while diverticulitis can cause abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits.
How It Causes a Positive FIT Test: Bleeding from the diverticula or inflammation can lead to blood in the stool.
Gastrointestinal Infections
Description: Infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to inflammation and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms: Symptoms can include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fever, and sometimes blood in the stool.
How It Causes a Positive FIT Test: The infection can cause ulceration and bleeding in the intestines, leading to a positive FIT test.
Hemorrhoids
Description: Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the lower rectum or anus.
Symptoms: Symptoms include pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements.
How It Causes a Positive FIT Test: Bleeding hemorrhoids can release blood into the stool, which may be detected by the FIT test.
Understanding these conditions helps highlight the importance of follow-up testing after a positive FIT test result. While IBS itself does not cause a positive FIT test, these other conditions need to be ruled out to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
What Are the Odds of a Positive FIT Test for Colon Cancer?
The Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a widely used screening tool for colorectal cancer because of its sensitivity to hidden blood in the stool. While a positive FIT test indicates the presence of blood, it does not confirm a diagnosis of colorectal cancer but does warrant further investigation. Here are some key statistics and data on the likelihood of a positive FIT test indicating colorectal cancer:
Detection Rates:
Studies have shown that FIT can detect colorectal cancer with a sensitivity of approximately 79-87% and a specificity of around 90-95%. This means that while FIT is highly effective in identifying individuals who may have colorectal cancer, it is not perfect and can result in false positives and false negatives [1-3].
Positive Predictive Value (PPV):
The PPV of a FIT test for colorectal cancer varies depending on the population being tested. In average-risk populations, the PPV of a positive FIT result for detecting colorectal cancer ranges from 3% to 10%. This means that 3-10% of individuals with a positive FIT test will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer upon further investigation [4].
Prevalence and Follow-Up:
According to Public Health England, approximately 5-10% of individuals with a positive FIT result will have colorectal cancer, and 20-30% will have advanced adenomas, underscoring the need for follow-up investigations [5].
Importance of Follow-Up Testing and Procedures After a Positive FIT Test
A positive FIT test result necessitates follow-up testing to determine the source of the bleeding and to rule out or confirm colorectal cancer. The primary follow-up procedure is a colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualisation of the colon and rectum and the ability to take biopsies if necessary. Here are the key reasons why follow-up testing is crucial:
Accurate Diagnosis
A colonoscopy provides a definitive diagnosis by allowing healthcare providers to see any abnormalities in the colon and rectum. It helps distinguish between colorectal cancer, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, and other potential causes of bleeding.
Early Detection and Treatment
Early detection of colorectal cancer through follow-up testing significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Colorectal cancer found at an early stage is more likely to be treated successfully.
Management of Other Conditions
Even if colorectal cancer is not present, a colonoscopy can identify other conditions that require treatment, such as polyps, diverticulosis, or colitis. Removing polyps during a colonoscopy can prevent them from becoming cancerous.
Reduction of Anxiety
Follow-up testing can provide peace of mind by ruling out serious conditions. Knowing the exact cause of a positive FIT result helps individuals and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about further treatment and management.
Guidance for Future Screening
The results of follow-up testing can inform future screening strategies. For instance, if polyps are found and removed, more frequent surveillance may be recommended to monitor for recurrence.
While a positive FIT test does not definitively diagnose colorectal cancer, it is a critical indicator that further investigation is needed. Understanding the odds and following up with appropriate procedures like colonoscopy are essential steps in ensuring accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and better health outcomes.
Importance of Comprehensive Diagnosis and Distinguishing Between IBS and Other Gastrointestinal Conditions
A comprehensive diagnosis is crucial in distinguishing IBS from other gastrointestinal conditions that can cause a positive FIT test. Here are key reasons why thorough diagnostic processes are essential:
Avoiding Misdiagnosis: Given the symptom overlap, relying solely on symptom presentation can lead to misdiagnosis. Comprehensive diagnostic testing, including FIT tests, blood tests, endoscopy, and colonoscopy, helps ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Targeted Treatment Plans: Different gastrointestinal conditions require different treatments. IBS is typically managed with dietary modifications, stress management, and sometimes medication to manage symptoms. Conditions like colorectal cancer, IBD, or polyps require specific medical or surgical interventions. Accurate diagnosis ensures that patients receive the most effective treatment for their condition.
Preventing Complications: Identifying and treating conditions that cause bleeding, such as colorectal cancer or IBD, is critical to prevent serious complications. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of severe complications.
Patient Reassurance: Patients experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms often have significant anxiety about their health. A comprehensive diagnosis provides clarity and reassurance, helping to alleviate concerns about more serious conditions.
Guiding Long-Term Management: For chronic conditions like IBS, a clear diagnosis helps in formulating a long-term management plan tailored to the individual’s needs. This plan can include dietary advice, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring to manage symptoms effectively.
Holistic Health Approach: Comprehensive diagnosis takes into account the entire health profile of the patient. This approach ensures that all potential issues, including nutritional deficiencies, mental health concerns, and other comorbid conditions, are addressed.
So, while a positive FIT test is not directly linked to IBS, it plays a crucial role in ruling out other serious conditions that might present with similar symptoms. Comprehensive diagnostic testing is essential to accurately distinguish between IBS and other gastrointestinal conditions, ensuring patients receive the appropriate treatment and management for their specific health needs. Understanding the connection between IBS symptoms and FIT test results helps in navigating the complexities of gastrointestinal health and achieving better overall outcomes.
Next Steps After a Positive FIT Test
A positive Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) indicates the presence of blood in the stool, which necessitates further investigation to determine the source of the bleeding. Here are the recommended follow-up procedures and tests:
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a procedure where a long, flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum to examine the entire colon and rectum. It allows for direct visualisation of the colon and rectum, enabling the detection and removal of polyps, and the identification of cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, and other sources of bleeding.
Sigmoidoscopy
Similar to a colonoscopy, but only examines the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) and rectum. Used when bleeding is suspected to originate from the lower bowel.
CT Colonography
Also known as virtual colonoscopy, it uses CT imaging to provide detailed pictures of the colon and rectum. It’s a non-invasive alternative to colonoscopy, used to detect polyps and cancers.
Upper Endoscopy
A procedure where a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth to examine the upper digestive tract. Recommended if there is a suspicion that bleeding might be coming from the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Stool Tests
Additional stool tests to check for infections, inflammatory markers, or other conditions.
These help rule out infections or inflammatory conditions contributing to the bleeding.
Blood Tests
Blood tests to check for anaemia, inflammation, and other relevant parameters. They can help identify if there is a significant loss of blood or underlying systemic conditions.
Importance of Consulting a Healthcare Professional for an Accurate Diagnosis
Consulting a healthcare professional after a positive FIT test is crucial for several reasons:
Expert Interpretation
Healthcare professionals can accurately interpret the results of a FIT test in the context of the patient’s overall health and symptoms. They can distinguish between false positives and genuine concerns requiring further investigation.
Comprehensive Evaluation
A healthcare provider will perform a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history and physical examination, to guide the appropriate follow-up tests. This comprehensive approach ensures all potential causes of bleeding are considered.
Appropriate Follow-Up
Based on the initial assessment, healthcare professionals can recommend the most suitable follow-up procedures, such as colonoscopy, to identify the source of bleeding accurately. They can also prioritize urgent conditions that need immediate attention.
Early Detection and Treatment
Timely follow-up with a healthcare professional can lead to early detection of serious conditions like colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment and better outcomes.
Personalised Care
Healthcare providers offer personalised care, tailoring diagnostic and treatment plans to the individual’s specific needs and medical history. This ensures a holistic approach to managing the patient’s health.
Guidance and Support
A positive FIT test can cause significant anxiety. Healthcare professionals provide guidance, support, and reassurance throughout the diagnostic process, helping patients understand their condition and the necessary steps forward.
Monitoring and Prevention
Following a positive FIT test and subsequent diagnosis, healthcare professionals can establish a monitoring plan to prevent recurrence or manage chronic conditions. This may include regular screenings, lifestyle advice, and medical treatments.
After a positive FIT test, consulting a healthcare professional is essential to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate follow-up. The recommended procedures and tests, guided by expert advice, help identify the source of bleeding, facilitate early intervention, and provide personalised care for better health outcomes.
Next Steps After a Negative FIT Test – Is it IBS?
Understanding a Negative FIT Test Result
A negative Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) result indicates that no hidden blood was detected in the stool sample. This is generally a reassuring outcome, as it reduces the likelihood of serious conditions like colorectal cancer or significant gastrointestinal bleeding. However, a negative FIT test does not rule out other gastrointestinal disorders, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), which does not typically cause bleeding.
Is It IBS?
If you have a negative FIT test but continue to experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation, IBS could be a possible diagnosis. Here are the steps to consider in determining whether your symptoms are due to IBS:
Consultation with a Healthcare Professional
Comprehensive Symptom Review
– Discuss your symptoms in detail with a healthcare professional. They will consider the frequency, duration, and triggers of your symptoms to evaluate the likelihood of IBS.
Medical History
– Provide a thorough medical history, including any previous gastrointestinal issues, family history of digestive disorders, and lifestyle factors that might contribute to your symptoms.
Physical Examination
– A physical examination can help rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. The healthcare provider may palpate your abdomen to check for tenderness, masses, or other abnormalities.
Diagnostic Criteria for IBS
Rome IV Criteria:
– As previously discussed, the Rome IV criteria are used to diagnose IBS. According to these guidelines, IBS is diagnosed based on the presence of recurrent abdominal pain, on average, at least one day per week in the last three months, associated with two or more of the following:
– Pain related to defecation.
– A change in the frequency of stool.
– A change in the form (appearance) of stool.
Exclusion of Other Conditions:
– Since IBS is a diagnosis of exclusion, your healthcare provider may order additional tests to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms. These may include:
– Blood tests to check for infections, inflammation, and nutritional deficiencies.
– Stool tests to rule out infections, parasites, and inflammatory conditions.
– Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or CT scans, to check for structural abnormalities.
– Endoscopic procedures, like colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, to visually examine the intestines if deemed necessary.
Lifestyle and Dietary Evaluation
Dietary Assessment:
– Your healthcare provider may assess your diet to identify any food triggers that could be contributing to your symptoms. Common triggers include dairy, gluten, high-fat foods, and certain high-FODMAP foods.
Lifestyle Factors:
– Evaluate lifestyle factors such as stress, physical activity, and sleep patterns. Stress and anxiety are known to exacerbate IBS symptoms, so managing these can be crucial in symptom control.
Management of IBS
If IBS is diagnosed, the following management strategies can help alleviate symptoms:
Dietary Modifications
Implementing a low-FODMAP diet, avoiding known trigger foods, and maintaining a balanced diet can help manage symptoms.
Stress Management
Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and regular physical activity can reduce stress and improve symptoms.
Medications
Depending on your symptoms, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to manage pain, diarrhoea, or constipation.
Probiotics
Probiotics can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which may alleviate some IBS symptoms.
Regular Follow-Ups
Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
A negative FIT test is a positive sign, but it does not rule out IBS or other non-bleeding gastrointestinal disorders. By consulting with a healthcare professional, reviewing symptoms and medical history, and possibly undergoing further testing, you can work towards an accurate diagnosis. If diagnosed with IBS, a comprehensive management plan involving dietary changes, stress management, and regular follow-ups can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a valuable tool for detecting hidden blood in the stool, it is not used to diagnose Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). A positive FIT test indicates the presence of blood and necessitates further investigation to identify conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, colitis, or other gastrointestinal issues. The importance of follow-up procedures, such as colonoscopy, cannot be overstated, as they ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
On the other hand, a negative FIT test result can provide reassurance, but it does not rule out IBS or other gastrointestinal disorders that do not cause bleeding. If you continue to experience symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including symptom review, medical history, and additional tests, to accurately diagnose and manage your condition.
Professional medical advice is essential in interpreting FIT test results and determining the next steps. Whether your FIT test result is positive or negative, consulting with a healthcare provider ensures that you receive the correct diagnosis and the most effective treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. By seeking timely and expert medical guidance, you can better manage your gastrointestinal health and improve your overall well being.
Author – Tracey Randell
At IBS Clinics, Tracey Randell, a renowned Nutritional Therapist and one of the few IFM Certified Practitioners in the UK, extends her specialised knowledge and unique approach to managing and treating IBS and other gut-related conditions effectively.
Tracey’s profound understanding of Functional Medicine allows her to connect the dots for complex health conditions, identifying and addressing the root causes to curate personalised and comprehensive health plans for her patients. Her holistic approach focuses on resolving underlying imbalances and optimising gut health, enabling the body to correct other issues and attain overall well-being.
At IBS Clinics, we are dedicated to being your partner in navigating your gut-related health concerns, offering expert care and individualised treatment plans to alleviate your IBS symptoms and enhance your quality of life.
You can read more about Tracey on our About page here.
References
- Allison, J. E., Sakoda, L. C., Levin, T. R., Tucker, J. P., Tekawa, I. S., & Cuff, T. (2007). Screening for colorectal neoplasms with new fecal occult blood tests: Update on performance characteristics. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 99(19), 1462-1470.
- Imperiale, T. F., Ransohoff, D. F., Itzkowitz, S. H., Turnbull, B. A., & Ross, M. E. (2004). Fecal DNA versus fecal occult blood for colorectal-cancer screening in an average-risk population. New England Journal of Medicine, 351(26), 2704-2714.
- Lee, J. K., Liles, E. G., Bent, S., Levin, T. R., & Corley, D. A. (2014). Accuracy of fecal immunochemical tests for colorectal cancer: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Annals of Internal Medicine, 160(3), 171-181.
- van Roon, A. H., Hol, L., van Vuuren, A. J., Ket, J. C., van der Togt, A. C., Mulder, C. J., & Kuipers, E. J. (2011). Diagnostic yield improves with collection of 2 samples in fecal immunochemical test screening without affecting attendance. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 9(4), 333-339.
- Public Health England. (2017). Bowel cancer screening: programme overview. Retrieved from Public Health England website.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products and methods mentioned are not a substitute for professional medical advice from a trained healthcare specialist. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Use of the information and products discussed is at your own risk.
