Bowel cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia. It can also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer.
The National Bowel Cancer Screening program aims to reduce deaths from bowel cancer by detecting early signs of the disease. Screening involves using a non-invasive test called the immunochemical faecal occult blood test (iFOBT). The iFOBT kit is free and sent to eligible Australians. This program is for both men and women who have no symptoms.
When should I have a screening test?
You will be sent a free screening test if you are:
- A man or a woman
- Aged 50 to 74
You will get a test mailed to you when you turn 50, 52, 54 and so on until you turn 74.
It is recommended that people who are not eligible for the program but are concerned about bowel cancer, or who are experiencing any symptoms that may be due to bowel cancer, consult a healthcare provider who may recommend other methods of screening.
How do I do the screening test?
The bowel screening test can be done at home. There are four easy steps to doing your home test kit for bowel cancer.
Instructions: How to do a home test kit
You can also watch this video on how to do the test:
Your result will be mailed to you and your GP (if nominated) a few weeks after you post your samples.
If you have any questions or need a translator
Call the test kit helpline on 1800 930 998
Call the program info line on 1800 118 868
Call the translating and interpreting service on 13 14 50