Bowel cancer screening
Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia(external site).
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program(external site) reduces illness and death from bowel cancer by detecting the early signs of the disease using a free, simple test that can be done at home.
About the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program
The Australian Government offers free bowel cancer screening kits, through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, to eligible Australians aged 45-74.
People aged 45 to 49 may request their first bowel cancer screening kit by submitting a webform (external site) or calling 1800 627 701.
People aged 50 to 74 will automatically receive a kit in the mail.
You may also speak with your doctor or health care professional about obtaining a kit. Subsequent kits will be posted to eligible people every 2 years.
The test is easy and can be done in the privacy of your own home.
If you receive your kit in the mail, it is important that you promptly complete the test (external site) and post it back. Lost or expired kits can be replaced (external site).
People with signs, symptoms, or a family history of bowel cancer, should talk with a doctor before screening with the program. Find out if the bowel screening test is right for you (external site).
Visit your GP if you have:
- change in bowel habit including diarrhoea, constipation or the feeling of incomplete emptying
- a change in the appearance or consistency of bowel movements such as thin bowel stools
- blood in the stools
- abdominal pain, bloating or cramping
- anal or rectal pain
- a lump in the anus or rectum
- weight loss
- unexplained fatigue
- tiredness and/or anaemia (pale complexion, weakness and breathlessness).
Why bowel screening is important
Bowel cancer often develops without any symptoms. The cancer can grow in the bowel for years before spreading to other parts of the body.
Very small amounts of blood can leak from these growths and pass into your faeces (poo). These tiny amounts of blood are not noticeable just by looking – that's where screening comes in.
Screening can find tiny amounts of blood in your poo that may be a sign of bowel cancer. The good news is that if found early, over 90% of bowel cancers can be successfully treated.
Ways to reduce your risk of bowel cancer
You can reduce your risk of bowel cancer by making health lifestyle choices and getting screened regularly, and when eligible.
To lower your risk, you can (external site):
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Be physically active
- Eat less processed meat and red meat
- Drink less alcohol
- Eat wholegrains, dietary fibre and dairy foods
- Quit smoking
- Get screened regularly
For more information, visit National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (external site)
Acknowledgements
Cancer Network WA
This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.