What is a Faecal Occult Blood Test?

A faecal occult blood test (FOBT) is a simple screening test used to detect hidden blood in your stool. Small amounts of blood in your stool, also known as occult blood, can be an early sign of colorectal cancer or other conditions that affect the digestive tract.   

An FOBT test involves collecting a small sample of your stool and analysing it with test cards or immunochemical tests. These tests detect if haemoglobin, an iron-containing protein in red blood cells, is present. If occult blood is detected, further testing may be recommended to identify the underlying cause.

How it’s related to your healthspan

An abnormal FOBT result does not necessarily mean you have colorectal cancer, but it does indicate an increased health risk that warrants follow-up. Colorectal cancer is in the top three most common cancers in both Singapore and the U.S., but when detected early through screening tests like FOBT, the five-year survival rate is around 90%.   

Regular FOBT screening from the age of 50 can detect colorectal cancer at an early, treatable stage. The test can also detect non-cancerous conditions that cause colorectal bleeding, such as inflammatory bowel disease, haemorrhoids, and diverticulosis.

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How to optimise your Faecal Occult Blood Test levels

To optimise your FOBT results, follow a healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables and fibre, and limit red and processed meat intake. Aim for at least 30 grams of fibre per day. Regular exercise, weight management and not smoking can also help maintain a healthy digestive tract.  

If you are prescribed a supplement such as iron to address anaemia, discuss with your healthcare provider when to pause supplementation prior to an FOBT to avoid a false positive result. Supplements like vitamin C and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also impact FOBT accuracy.

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How to analyse your Faecal Occult Blood Test levels

Understanding your biomarkers can help detect potential health issues early and guide you in making informed health decisions. Personalised recommendations enhance your overall well-being.

Take the next step by booking your Mito Health Longevity Health Screening today.

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What your Longevity Health Screening includes ($499):

• Analysis of 67 biomarkers
• Health risk assessments
• Personalised health recommendations
• Secure online dashboard to track results

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How to book your health screening:

• Step 1: Register online
• Step 2: Choose your blood draw location: Home or Trapeze Rec Club.
• Step 3: Receive results online in 7-10 working days. 

Book now

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Why choose Mito Health to analyse your biomarkers?

• Convenient home-based blood draws or at our Tanjong Pagar wellness studio: Trapeze Rec Club.
• Expert analysis by our Longevity Doctor Dr Ryan Ware, who personally vets all the results & diagnosis.
• Actionable insights. You can act on your results with our personalised recommendations to improve your health today.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is your health screening claimable by insurance or company benefits?

• Yes, our health screening is recognised by insurance & corporate companies as a health screening panel. You will be issued an official invoice which can be used to file a claim.
  

What do I need to take note of before my blood test?

• You’ll be required to fast 8 hours before the blood draw. Plain water is allowed.
• No strenuous exercise 12 hours prior to the test.
  

Do I have to fast before the blood test?

• Yes, you’ll be required to fast 8 hours before your blood draw. Plain water is allowed. 

Do I have to give my urine & stool samples?

• Yes, you will be required to provide urine & stool samples. Samples can be collected the same day as your blood draw, as the containers will be sent to you in advance. If you’re not able to produce the samples on the same day, they can be picked up on a separate arranged day. 

How long does the health screening take?

• Just 15-20 minutes! We’ll collect your blood sample & key biometrics. Stool & urine samples can be collected on the same day or in a separate arrangement. 

How often should I do a health screening?

• Doctors recommend at least twice a year, so you can also measure before & after any health interventions. 
• Our health screening is also complementary to traditional GP & Hospital health screenings if you have already done your health screening for the year. Our test report offers more in-depth insights & tailored health recommendations. You can view examples of the insights on our demo dashboard here. 
• Our panel of biomarkers not only extends your lifespan with early illness detection, but they also provide helpful insights to how you can feel & move better. Learn more about our biomarkers here. 

Why is health screening important?

• Long-term health: Regular screenings can help you stay healthy throughout your life. By identifying and addressing potential problems early on, you can reduce your risk of developing more serious health problems down the road.
• Early treatment is better: Many health conditions are easier and more affordable to treat when caught early. Screenings can help identify these issues before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment.
• Peace of mind: Knowing your health status through screenings can be a big stress reliever. It allows you to focus on staying healthy and enjoying life.
• Think of it as an investment in your future health and well-being. It's a chance to take control and stay proactive about your health.
  
  

I have more questions, how do I contact you? 

You can email us at help@mitohealth.com & we'll revert as soon as possible!

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