FIT Testing Update

12th December 2018

The FIT testing pilot in Stockport is gathering momentum, with well over 200 requests in the last 6 months. FIT is an effective alternative to a lower GI suspected cancer referral for some patients, who were previously referred down a “2ww” route. It is recommended for:

Patients without rectal bleeding and:

• 50 with unexplained abdominal pain or weight loss
• 60 with non iron deficiency anaemia

FIT testing is done on a single stool sample in the community (request via Tquest), with currently 80% of FIT tests being returned as negative, often avoiding the need for secondary care appointments, colonoscopy or CT. This is particularly important as many of these patients are elderly or frail with multiple co-morbidities. It is estimated from previous studies that FIT testing has up to 100% negative predictive value.

To date, only around half of Stockport practices seem to be utilising FIT testing, with marked variation between practices. Clinicians are encouraged to look at their own practice to ensure FIT is being used where appropriate as a much more convenient, safe and cost-effective alternative to referral.