Does a positive FIT or FOBT mean cancer?

No. A positive stool blood test does not diagnose cancer. It means blood has been detected and needs follow-up. Colonoscopy is usually recommended to investigate the cause, taking your health and circumstances into account.

Can polyps be removed during colonoscopy?

Many small polyps can be removed during the procedure, depending on their size and characteristics.

Endoscopy

Colonoscopy

A camera examination of the rectum and large bowel.

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Colonoscopy uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the large bowel. It is used to investigate symptoms, detect polyps, take biopsies and support colorectal cancer screening.

When might a colonoscopy be recommended?

Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
Persistent changes in bowel habits
Iron-deficiency anaemia without a clear cause
A positive stool blood test (FIT or FOBT)
A history of colorectal polyps or cancer
Screening based on age and risk

Preparing for a colonoscopy

Pre-procedure assessment
Bowel preparation with prescribed cleansing medication
Review of blood-thinning medication, diabetes treatment and existing medical conditions

Follow the hospital’s bowel preparation, diet and fasting instructions. Tell the team about all medicines, including blood thinners and diabetes medicines, and any medical conditions. Change medicines only as instructed by your doctor. If sedation is planned, arrange for an adult to take you home.

Infographic of colonoscopy, showing a flexible camera examining the large bowel. — Example Procedure: Colonoscopy

During the Procedure

During colonoscopy, the doctor can inspect the bowel lining, take biopsies and remove many types of small polyps. Sedation may be used for comfort.

After the procedure

Your findings and follow-up plan will be explained. Tissue and polyp results may take longer. If you have sedation, follow the hospital’s discharge advice about driving and activities. Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, fever, heavy or persistent bleeding, faintness or marked weakness.

Risks

Risks include bleeding, a tear in the bowel wall (perforation) and reactions to sedation. Serious complications are uncommon. Your doctor will explain the risks relevant to your procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

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