A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that participants who have a positive FOBT result may be referred for. It is a test to inspect the inside of the large bowel for any abnormalities such as polyps. Participants with a positive FOBT result will be sent a colonoscopy brochure containing more information about the procedure with their test result.
If your FOBT result is positive, your doctor will most likely recommend that you have a colonoscopy to find the cause of the bleeding. Participants may opt to have a colonoscopy in a public or private facility or hospital.
If bowel cancer is found, it will usually require surgery. If the cancer is found at an early stage, the chance of a full recovery is high. Most people will be able to return to their current lifestyle. This should be discussed with a general practitioner or specialist.
A clear colonoscopy means that no polyps or cancerous growths were detected at the time of the colonoscopy. This means that there is a low risk of developing bowel cancer within the next ten years. Medical experts advise that another FOBT should be completed in five years time. However, no test is 100% accurate, so if in the meantime you experience any symptoms such as rectal bleeding, blood in bowel motions, changes in bowel habits, unexplained tiredness or abdominal pain etc, a doctor should be consulted straight away.
Yes, there are other procedures available. Other options that may be suitable for you should be discussed with your doctor or with a specialist in bowel diseases.
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