What is a bowel cancer screening?

Early diagnosis helps reduce the number of Australians who die each year from bowel cancer.

The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program aims to help detect signs of bowel cancer early. The program offers Australians aged 50 to 74 years free screening every two years. A screen is a test for people who don’t have any obvious signs of disease. By screening, specialists can find signs of bowel cancer early. When bowel cancer is in its earliest stage, it is easiest to treat and cure.

The test used by the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program is called an immunochemical Faecal Occult Blood Test (iFOBT). This is the most well-researched test available. 

To organise a bowel cancer screen or learn more about screening, speak to your GP.

If you are not yet eligible for the program, but have symptoms, a family history or are concerned about bowel cancer, speak to your GP about your options.