You’re now eligible for a free bowel cancer screening test
Did you know that if you’re aged 45-49, you’re now eligible to screen with the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. Screening with the program has saved thousands of Australian lives - and the best part is it’s free and easy. Plus, you do the test in the comfort of your home.
Screening with the program is government-backed and recommended by doctors.
Here we’ll explain how you can request your first free kit and why bowel cancer screening matters.
Why bowel cancer screening matters
If found early, more than 90% of cases can be successfully treated.
Screening from the age of 45, every two years gives you the best chance of finding bowel cancer early.
The reality is, bowel cancer is the second biggest cause of cancer death in Australia, taking more lives than breast, prostate or skin cancer. Australia also has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer worldwide among people aged 45–49.
Based on the latest evidence, the screening program has lowered the starting age from 50 to include people aged 45-49, helping more Australians find the disease earlier, when it’s most treatable.
It’s important to be aware you can have bowel cancer and have no signs or symptoms. It can develop without any family history, and if you feel fit and healthy.
Bowel cancer screening really does saves lives. Join the millions who have done the test today.
Getting your test is easy, and it’s free.
People aged 45-49, can request their first kit via webform or by calling 1800 627 701. Don't worry - it’s super simple.
People aged 50-74 will automatically be sent a test every two years.
All people aged 45-74 can also ask their doctor about getting a kit.
You’ll receive the test at your registered Medicare address - so make sure it’s up to date! The test will come with clear, easy-to-follow instructions on how to complete it. If you’re interested in learning more, check out more about the test.
Request your free test here.
A positive step for your health
We get it – life gets busy. But… realistically, the test only takes a few minutes of your time and can be done at your convenience, at home.
Millions of eligible Australians do the bowel cancer screening test, and for most people the test result is negative.
A positive result doesn’t always mean bowel cancer. It means blood was found in your poo and should be investigated further with your doctor. What’s most important is that bowel cancer screening can help find changes early, when it’s easier to treat.
In fact, around 90% of bowel cancer cases can be successfully treated if found early. Doing the test every two years is a simple way to stay on top of your health, which means more time for the people, places and moments that matter to you.
How to do the test
Screening for bowel cancer involves doing an at-home test called an immunochemical faecal occult blood test (iFOBT). The test looks for tiny traces of blood in the poo, which can be invisible to the human eye, and could be a sign of bowel cancer.
You’ll need to take a small sample from two separate poos. This means you’ll need to go to the toilet twice to poo and take a sample each time. Collect the two samples as close together as you can (not on the same day).
Then return your samples in the reply-paid envelope for testing. You and your doctor will be sent the result within 4 weeks.
What’s in the kit?
The kit has everything you need to do the test, including:
- detailed instructions
- flushable toilet liners
- collection tubes
- sanitary zip lock bag
- reply-paid envelope
Note: Extended exposure to hot weather can affect the accuracy of any bowel cancer screening test, so if you live in an area where it gets very hot, you will be sent a screening kit during the colder months of the year. If you would like to receive your kit sooner, don’t worry, you can also request it now. It is important that you complete and return your test as soon as you can.
What to do next
Congratulate yourself on taking a positive step for your health. What you do today could save your life.
Once you’ve completed the form, you’ll be sent the kit. It is important to do your test right away. Try not put it in a cupboard or drawer (or ignore it!). We recommend placing the bowel cancer screening kit in sight of your toilet as a reminder to take the test next time you go. The test involves just four simple steps; then you simply post it back and wait for the results.
It is important to do the test every two years until you turn 74. Don’t delay. This test could save your life.