Positive FOB Result
A positive FOB result means that the level of blood in the stool is above the screening threshold.
This test is a screening test and does not diagnose bowel cancer but indicates that blood is present and further investigation is required, usually a colonoscopy. Elevated stool blood may be due to cancer, polyps, or non cancer causes such as haemorrhoids or inflammation.
Negative FOB Result
A negative FOB result means the amount of blood in the stool is below the screening limit.
This is reassuring, and individuals should simply repeat screening at the recommended interval. However, a normal result does not completely rule out bowel cancer, as not all cancers or polyps bleed consistently. Patient with symptoms should still seek GP review even after a negative test.