Global Fecal Occult Testing Market - By Test Type: Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT/iFOBT), Guaiac-based FOBT (gFOBT); By Sample Type: Single Sample, Multiple Sample (2–3 samples); By End User: Hospitals and Clinics, Diagnostic Laboratories, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, Home Healthcare Settings; By Region: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific Latin America and Middle East and Africa
1 | Market Overview
The global fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) market plays a pivotal role in the early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC), gastrointestinal bleeding, and other occult gastrointestinal disorders. FOBT is a non-invasive, low-cost, and widely accepted screening tool used to detect hidden (occult) blood in the stool. The market consists of two major test types: guaiac-based fecal occult blood tests (gFOBT) and fecal immunochemical tests (FIT/iFOBT), with FIT gradually gaining market dominance due to its higher sensitivity, specificity, and patient compliance.
Colorectal cancer ranks among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. With increasing screening initiatives, aging populations, and improved public awareness, FOBT has emerged as a key frontline tool in preventive healthcare. Technological advancements such as automated analyzers, point-of-care FIT kits, and AI-supported stool sample interpretation are further boosting adoption.
2 | Market Size and Forecast
|
Year |
Market Value (USD billion) |
Notes |
|
2019 |
1.25 |
Based on CRC screening programs and hospital procurement |
|
2024 |
1.93 |
Five-year CAGR: 8.9% |
|
2031 |
3.89 |
Seven-year CAGR: 10.7% |
The market is expected to double by 2031, driven by government-backed screening mandates, increased CRC prevalence, and innovations in sample collection and automation.
3 | Primary Market Drivers
4 | Market Challenges
5 | Competitive Landscape
|
Company |
Est. 2024 Share |
Strengths |
Recent Strategic Move |
|
QuidelOrtho Corporation |
14% |
Broad diagnostics portfolio with CLIA-waived FIT kits |
Launched QuickVue® One FIT+ platform for home use |
|
Sysmex Corporation |
12% |
High-throughput immunochemical analyzers |
Expanded screening reach in APAC via government tenders |
|
Polymedco |
10% |
Dedicated to colorectal cancer screening programs |
Secured multi-state FIT contracts in the U.S. |
|
Eiken Chemical Co., Ltd. |
9% |
High-sensitivity OC-Sensor family of analyzers |
Added new sample prep systems for national screening labs |
|
Abbott Laboratories |
8% |
Automation-integrated immunoassays |
Expanded FOBT menu within Alinity i platform |
6 | Detailed Market Segmentation
By Test Type
By Sample Type
By End User
By Region
7 | Technology and Innovation
8 | Regulatory Environment
9 | Strategic Outlook
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