The NCL Cancer Alliance reports that the use of faecal immunochemical test (FIT) ahead of urgent suspected cancer referrals for colorectal cancer has fallen in NCL.

All clinicians should be using FIT tests to guide referral for suspected lower gastro-intestinal (GI) cancer. A FIT test should be completed within the 21 days prior to suspected lower GI cancer referral unless exclusions apply.

Exclusions are rectal mass, anal mass, anal ulceration or patient declines; these should be coded. See the guide for non-clinical staff on setting up practice protocols for FIT.

Resources on FIT 

• FIT best practice guide for clinical staff
• Guide for non-clinical staff on setting up practice protocols for FIT.

You can view your practice’s FIT uptake on the Cancer Primary Care Dashboard page.