New study shows double testing of FIT is more effective at identifying bowel cancer

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh have found that the accuracy of detecting bowel cancer is increased to almost 100 per cent by carrying out a common test twice rather than once, according to a new study published in the British Journal of Surgery.

The test – called a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) – is used to detect blood in poo that is not visible to the human eye, which may indicate bowel cancer.

Researchers, including our newly announced Colorectal Cancer Surgical Research Chair Miss Farhat Din, found that carrying out the test twice ensured more cases of bowel cancer were identified.

As well as reducing the risk of a missed diagnosis, experts say this two-test approach has the potential to reduce demand for colonoscopies in a healthcare system under pressure.  

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK and the second biggest cancer killer. More than 16,500 people die from the disease every year. Early detection is important as bowel cancer is treatable and curable if diagnosed early.

Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive at Bowel Cancer UK, says: “Someone dies from bowel cancer every 30 minutes in the UK, making it the second biggest cancer killer but it is treatable and curable if diagnosed early. Finding new ways to diagnose bowel cancer more quickly and accurately is key to saving thousands of lives. This study adds to a growing body of evidence that FIT can be highly effective at identifying people in greatest need of further diagnostic tests.”

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