Stool Occult Blood Test
Early Detection of Hidden Gastrointestinal Bleeding
What Is a Stool Occult Blood Test?
A stool occult blood test (faecal occult blood test or FOBT) checks for tiny traces of blood in your stool that are not visible to the naked eye.
These microscopic amounts of blood can be an early warning sign of gastrointestinal (GI) problems, including:
- Colorectal cancer
- Polyps (precancerous growths)
- Ulcers
- Gastritis or inflammation
- Haemorrhoids
- Other sources of bleeding in the digestive tract
Because early-stage GI bleeding often has no obvious symptoms, this test is a key part of preventive health screening — especially for people at higher risk of colorectal cancer.
Why Check for Occult Blood in Stool?
Blood in the stool is not always visible, but it can indicate:
- Early colorectal cancer (when treatment is most effective)
- Bleeding from ulcers or polyps
- Chronic inflammation in the digestive tract
- Unexplained anaemia (low red blood cell count)
Routine screening with a stool occult blood test helps detect problems before symptoms appear, allowing for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
What Causes a Positive Stool Occult Blood Test?
A positive result means blood is present in your stool — but it does not always mean cancer. Common causes include:
- Colorectal cancer or polyps
- Peptic ulcers or gastritis
- Haemorrhoids (piles)
- Diverticulosis
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Anal fissures
If your test is positive, our doctor may recommend further investigations such as a colonoscopy or gastroscopy to find the exact source.
Who Should Consider a FOBT?
This test is recommended if you:
- Are aged 50 or above (routine colorectal cancer screening age)
- Have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Experience unexplained changes in bowel habits
- Have unexplained iron deficiency or anaemia
- Notice occasional blood in your stool or on toilet paper
- Are at risk due to lifestyle factors (low fibre diet, smoking, obesity)
Why Is Stool Occult Blood Test Especially Important?
The Stool Occult Blood Test is a simple, non-invasive way to detect hidden bleeding in the digestive tract early, helping to prevent colorectal cancer and improve treatment outcomes.
Stool Occult Blood Test
Sample type: Small stool sample collected using a home or clinic-provided kit
Preparation: You may be advised to avoid certain foods or medications for a few days before the test
Turnaround time: Usually 1–3 working days
Stool Occult Blood Test
*Turnaround time 1-3 working days
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*Prices listed were last updated on 1 July 2023. Prices may be subject to change.
*Price does not include consultation fee and GST.
Book Your Stool Occult Blood Test Today
Don’t wait for visible symptoms. Early detection saves lives. A quick and simple stool occult blood test can help identify problems early — when they’re most treatable.
Finding Us
Holland Village
255 Holland Ave, Singapore 278983
Near MRT Exit B
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:
8.30am - 2.30pm
5.30pm - 10.00pm
Wed:
8.30am - 2.30pm
Sat:
9.00am - 3.00pm
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. For the latest updates on our clinic’s opening hours, please check our Google Maps.
** GP registration ends 15 mins before the closing time above, while Physiotherapy & Acupuncture end registration 45 mins before. Please book an appointment in advance to avoid queues and disappointment.
Katong
437 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427650
Near Marine Parade MRT
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:
8.30am - 2.30pm
5.30pm - 10.00pm
Wed:
8.30am - 2.30pm
Sat:
9.00am - 3.00pm
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. For the latest updates on our clinic’s opening hours, please check our Google Maps.
** GP registration ends 15 mins before the closing time above, while Physiotherapy & Acupuncture end registration 45 mins before. Please book an appointment in advance to avoid queues and disappointment.
FAQ
Accessibility & Support
Regis Medical Holland Village is located at 255 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278983
Regis Medical Katong is located at 437 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427650
Click here to view our opening hoursAppointment
To book an appointment at Regis Medical Holland Village, please call or whatsapp us 8118 5298
To book an appointment at Regis Medical Katong, please call or whatsapp us 9851 3728
You can only cancel or change your appointments up to 24 hours before your appointment. You will receive your refund within 3 working days. No refund will be issued for no shows and cancellations within 24 hours before your appointment. However, if you are feeling unwell on the day of the appointment, we allow patients who have their acute illness seen at Regis Medical to reschedule their appointment without extra cost.
This policy is subject to change.
Yes. You can reschedule your appointments. However, you need to reschedule your appointment at least 24 hours before your actual appointment time. If you are unwell on the day of the appointment, we will reschedule your appointment at no extra cost if you seek medical attention at our clinic (for non-emergencies only).
Finance
General
- Dietary restrictions:
- Avoid red meat (beef, lamb, liver) as it may cause false positives.
- Limit certain raw fruits and vegetables, especially those high in vitamin C or with strong flavors (e.g., horseradish), which can interfere with results.
- Avoid vitamin C supplements, as they can lead to false negatives.
- Avoid iron supplements, as they may cause false positives.
- Medication restrictions:
- Avoid NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin) a few days before the test, as they may affect results.
- If you take aspirin for heart conditions, consult our doctor before stopping it.