Positive Fecal Occult Blood Test and Colonoscopy With Histopathology Findings in Saudi Adults

Background/aims Colorectal cancer cases are on the rise in developing countries, necessitating dependable detection tests. Moreover, medical procedures have become increasingly burdensome for both patients and healthcare professionals. This study aims to delve deeper into the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) as a potential solution. Settings and design The research took place at the Gastroenterology Specialized Clinic (Human Clinic) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The study gathered results from colonoscopy/sigmoidoscopy, histopathology, and FOBT screening. Essential variables linked to colorectal cancer, including gastrointestinal symptoms, chronic diseases, hemoglobin (Hgb), body mass index (BMI), and medication usage, were documented to evaluate their potential predictive significance for positive outcomes. Methods and materials In line with the study aims, inclusion criteria covered Saudi adults aged 18 and above, experiencing lower GI symptoms, with colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, FOBT, and histopathological results. The resultant sample size was 72 patients. Non-Saudi individuals, symptoms-free patients, and those below 18 years were excluded. This retrospective analysis spanned from September 2021 to September 2022. For statistical analysis, after the data rationality was checked, parametric or non-parametric tests were used. P ≤ 0.05 was set as the significant level. Results Among the 72 patients, ranging in age from 18 to 80 (mean 42.94), males (57) outnumbered females (15). The average BMI was 27.56, with one-third of patients classified as overweight or obese. A majority of 47 (65.2%) exhibited normal Hgb levels while only five (7%) had abnormal levels. Results from colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy and FOBT displayed statistical similarity between positive and negative outcomes. Additionally, the notable prevalence of positive results compared to negative ones underscores the resemblance between FOBT and colonoscopy/sigmoidoscopy findings. Conclusion Chronic illness, constitutional symptoms, BMI, and Hgb did not display a significant predictive value, However, the group with GI symptoms exhibited a strong prediction for favorable colonoscopy/sigmoidoscopy and histology outcomes. Additional research is necessary to validate these observed patterns.