Simple test for stomach problems

A protein test can detect whether someone has an inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, or whether they have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Doctors can look for the protein calprotectin in stool samples – a less intrusive method than colonoscopies, a tube inserted via the bottom. A pilot study in 2014 found faecal calprotectin testing reduced hospital referrals by 50 to 80per cent.