I am 44 year old female and in general excellent health. A routine health examination gave a positive FOB test (twice). I have no history of parents with cancer (both 78) and have never suffered from any gastric disorders. My motions are morning/regular and soft. The result was a complete surprise and all other tests (blood/urine) etc were totally normal. I have had one large external pile for 8 years since delivering my children, but have never experienced any discomfort/bleeding. I do not suffer from any aches/cramps etc, in fact I consider my digestion extremely healthy. I do not eat red meat or fat and my diet many consiists of fruit/pulses/fish, life-non smoker, 1/2 units alcohol per week. My doctor has recommended a colonoscopy with general anaesthetic. I am reluctant as would prefer the barium enema/sigmoidoscopy route and eleminate things as I go along. I have never had any form or anesthesia/sedation apart from gas and air during delivery which I reacted very badly to, especially anxiety and paranoia. I personally feel an invasive procedure is a little too premature (as there is evidence of piles) and would rather go that route if the barium enema or sigmodoscopy led in that direction. I also have impacted wisdom teeth which bleed on brushing, but I was advised this would not affect an immunochemical test. Are they any other alternatives you could recommend such as blood tests/dna etc. I just want to rule out cancer, it there is anything else causing the bleeding such as ulcer etc I am happy to leave well alone as I am in no discomfort. I would be grateful for suggestions/advice on this matter. (I was also advised there is no need to rush as colon cancer advances very slowly?)