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Bowel Cancer is Australia’s second biggest cancer killer but one of the most treatable types of cancer when detected early. While the risk of bowel cancer increases significantly with age, the disease doesn’t discriminate. It’s the deadliest cancer for Australians aged 25-54. Each week, 286 Australians will be diagnosed, and it takes the lives of 103 Australians every week. That’s more than 5,000 people each year.
If found early, more than 90% of cases can be successfully treated. So, don’t wait, test now.
The Australian Government, through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, recommends bowel cancer screening that is appropriate to your personal level risk. Screening is for people who do not already have bowel cancer, symptoms of bowel cancer, or any reason to have a high risk of bowel cancer. If you do, you should consult your GP for appropriate investigation. Information is also available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on free bowel cancer screening.
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The eligible screening age has been lowered to 45, making the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program accessible to more Australians. People aged 50-74 continue to receive a free at-home test kit from the Australian Government every two years, while people aged 45-49 can now request a free screening kit to be mailed to them or receive one in-person from their GP.
Most people who don’t participate in bowel screening do intend to do the test, but often delay because they are busy, forget, or simply don’t get around to it. After you’ve organised your kit, there’s a simple explainer available that goes through the steps to follow.
If you are under 45 and want to participate in screening, speak to your GP about whether you are eligible for a free diagnostic test. They may also refer you for a colonoscopy or other further testing. More information can be found on the National Bowel Cancer Screening website.
Your result from the bowel screening test will usually arrive within 4 weeks from when you posted it to us. Results can be negative, positive or inconclusive.
If you have a positive test result, you should see your GP to find out what’s causing the bleeding. Your GP will probably refer you to a specialist to have a procedure called a colonoscopy
Importantly, if your GP suggests further tests or a referral, this doesn’t necessarily mean you have bowel cancer – your GP will want to rule out other possible causes for the positive result.
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