A guide to: Bowel cancer screening

Bowel cancer screening saves lives. It is one of the most effective ways to detect bowel cancer early, when it's most treatable. If found early, 90% of bowel cancer cases can be successfully treated.

If you’ve delayed or skipped your screening, now is the time to catch up. It could save your life.

If you’ve received a free test kit, leave it somewhere in-sight in the bathroom to help you remember to do it. The test is simple and can be done the next time you go to the bathroom.

If your kit is lost, expired or damaged, you can easily request a free replacement by completing the National Cancer Screening Register’s reorder form.

Why is bowel cancer screening important?

Bowel (or colorectal) cancer is the second deadliest cancer in Australia – but it doesn’t have to be. Early detection is key.

That’s why Cancer Council Australia recommends all eligible people complete the free, at-home bowel screening test (called a faecal occult blood test, or FOBT) every two years. It’s the most effective way to find early signs of bowel cancer, often before symptoms appear.

Who is eligible for bowel cancer screening?

• Ages 50 to 74: You’ll automatically receive a free home test kit in the mail every two years.
• Ages 45 to 49: You can now request a free kit to be mailed to you.
• If you're under 45 but have symptoms, a family history, or concerns, speak with your GP.

For questions or support, call Cancer Council on 13 11 20 or visit bowelcancer.org.au.

How to participate in the bowel screening test

Bowel screening is quick, free, and can be done at home:

1. Follow the instructions in your kit to collect a two small stool samples.
2. Post it back using the reply-paid envelope provided.
3. Wait for your results - you'll be contacted with the outcome.

If your result is positive, it doesn’t mean you have cancer - but it is important to speak with your doctor about next steps. You may be referred for a colonoscopy to investigate further.

Download information about bowel screening in your language

Personal stories

Brian's story

Erik's story

Erik Carapetian received the bowel screening test in the mail shortly after his 50th birthday. He did the test straight away, despite being healthy, active, a non-smoker and without symptoms.

The test came back positive, and Erik’s GP sent him for a colonoscopy which detected a tumour. He was then booked in for surgery and within a week of diagnosis, the tumour was removed and confirmed as bowel cancer.

The test may have saved Erik’s life, and he now encourages other Australians to take advantage of the free National Bowel Screening Program.

For more information