Stool Occult Blood Test
Last updated: 27 Aug 2024.
A stool occult blood test, also known as Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT), is designed to detect hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of conditions such as colorectal cancer, ulcers, polyps, or gastrointestinal bleeding. From 2017 to 2021, colorectal cancer was the second most common cancer in Singapore with over 6,697 cases diagnosed. Male Chinese Singaporeans also have higher incidence rates among the local population.
Given the prevalence of colorectal cancer among men locally, early detection is vital to improving treatment outcomes and survival rates. Regular screening is recommended to start at age 50 for those without risk factors, and earlier for those with risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer.
How Does Stool Occult Blood Test Work?
A Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) is a type of FOBT which uses antibodies to detect a blood protein called haemoglobin in the stool, indicating the presence of blood. It is more specific to human blood and does not require dietary restrictions, making it more convenient for patients.
Why Do a Stool Occult Blood Test?
The primary benefit of FOBTs is early detection of colorectal cancer, which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce mortality rates. Additional benefits can include:
- Non-Invasive and Convenient: FOBTs are simple, non-invasive tests that can be performed conveniently at home.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to other diagnostic methods like colonoscopy, FOBTs are cost-effective, making them more accessible.
- Detection of Other Conditions: Besides colorectal cancer, FOBTs can help detect other conditions that cause gastrointestinal bleeding, such as ulcers, polyps, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Early detection can lead to better overall health outcomes.
- Regular Monitoring: Regular FOBT screening provides ongoing monitoring, helping to detect any changes early and initiate further diagnostic procedures such as a colonoscopy. For individuals with higher risk, such as those with a family history of colorectal cancer, colonoscopy would be recommended for regular screening instead.
How Is a Stool Occult Blood Test Performed?
A FIT is typically conducted at home using a test kit provided by a doctor to collect a stool sample. The procedure involves the following steps:
- Consultation: Consult with your doctor and collect the provided sample collection kit.
- Sample Collection: Use the provided kit to collect stool samples at home. This often involves using a brush or applicator to smear a small sample of stool onto a test card or into a sample tube.
- Sample Submission: Seal the samples as directed and return them to the clinic, either by mail or in person.
- Testing and Results: The samples are sent to a laboratory to be analysed. A positive result indicates the presence of blood in the stool, warranting further diagnostic procedures, such as a CT colonography or colonoscopy, to determine the cause of bleeding.
Price for Stool Occult Blood Test in Singapore
At ATA Medical, we offer FIT as a standalone test or as part of our health screening packages:
| Test | Price* |
|---|---|
| Stool Occult Blood Test | |
| Consultation | $38.15 |
| Stool Occult Blood - Immunological | $27.25 |
| Stool FEME - Ova, Parasites | $44.69 |
| Stool FEME & Stool Occult Blood | $56.68 |
| Stool Culture | $54.50 |
| Health Screening Packages With Stool Occult Blood Test | |
| Crown | $381 |
| Crown Plus | $485 |
| Royal | $667 |
| Jewel | $1415 |
Additionally, we also offer colonoscopy screening, which is claimable from MediSave for those aged 50 years and above. Consultation will be done at our clinics, while the procedure will be scheduled on another day to be performed by a specialist gastroenterologist at a day surgery centre.
| Procedure | Price* |
|---|---|
| Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy (OGD) | From $1417 |
| Colonoscopy | From $2398 |
| Oesophago-Gastro-Duodenoscopy (OGD) + Colonoscopy | From $2943 |
These prices cover pre-screening consultation and post-screening review, and do not include additional procedures like biopsies, polyp removal, or medications.
How Long Does a Stool Occult Blood Test Take?
Consultation at our clinics will take no longer than 30 to 60 minutes during off-peak hours. After the consultation, you can bring home the test kit to collect the stool sample at home and return it to our clinic, where it will be sent for testing. The results will be sent to you within 1 to 3 working days.
Where to Do a Stool Occult Blood Test in Singapore
You can do a stool occult blood test at any of our two conveniently located clinics:
- Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
- Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)
Summary
A stool occult blood test is a vital diagnostic tool used to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal conditions. Its non-invasive nature, convenience for at-home testing, and cost-effectiveness make it an essential part of routine health check-ups and disease prevention. Early detection through regular screening is crucial to improve treatment outcomes and overall health. If you are unsure if an FOBT is suitable for you, schedule a consultation with a doctor to discuss more.
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