Self-test for faecal haemoglobin levels at home with SmarTest® FIT
The detection of haemoglobin in stool samples can be used as a marker of gastrointestinal bleeding as part of a colorectal cancer screening initiative. Hidden traces of blood in the stool can originate from tumours or polyps (lesions) in the lower gastrointestinal tract so when haemoglobin is detected in stool samples it is indicative of the presence of such lesions and is a trigger for further investigation.
Studies have shown that when FIT (faecal immunochemical test) testing is employed and combined with confirmatory colonoscopy, precancerous lesion can be detected and treated in order to reduce mortality from colorectal cancer.
The Preventis SmarTest® FIT Home test system consists of a rapid immunological test and a smartphone app. The rapid lateral flow test detects human haemoglobin in stool samples using gold-conjugated anti-haemoglobin antibodies. The SmarTest app is then used to scan and analyse the faecal haemoglobin (FIT) test result according to the intensity of the control and test lines on the lateral flow test. The quantitative results of the test are then displayed in the app and available for discussions and follow up with healthcare professionals.