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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?
The eligible screening age for the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program is 45 years of age.
Eligible people aged 50 to 74 will receive a bowel cancer screening kit in the mail every two years automatically. You will get a test mailed to you when you turn 50, 52, 54 and so on until you turn 74.
People aged 45 to 49 may request a kit on the first occasion and will automatically receive them every two years thereafter.
Request your kit at www.ncsr.gov.au/boweltest or call the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program on 1800 627 701. Or speak to your GP.
It is recommended people who are not eligible for the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program but are concerned about bowel cancer, or who are experiencing any symptoms which may be due to bowel cancer, consult their GP 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