Bowel cancer screening now starts at 45: your guide to the free home test

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia, and it is increasingly being diagnosed in people under 50. In July 2024, the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program lowered the starting age from 50 to 45, which means more people can now use the free home test. Here is what to know.

What changed and who is eligible

Eligible Australians aged 45 to 74 can now take part in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. People aged 50 to 74 are mailed a free test kit every two years. If you are aged 45 to 49, you can request your first kit, and after that it will be sent to you every two years.

You can request a kit through the National Cancer Screening Register online or by phone, or ask your GP.

How the home test works

The test is called an immunochemical faecal occult blood test (iFOBT). It looks for tiny amounts of blood in your bowel motions that cannot be seen with the naked eye. The kit includes simple instructions, collection sticks and a reply envelope.

You collect two small samples from separate bowel motions at home, without needing to change your diet or medicines, and post them back. Keep the samples cool and follow the instructions about timing.

Understanding your results

Your results are sent to you and to your nominated GP. A negative result means no blood was found, and you will be invited to screen again in two years. A positive result does not mean you have cancer; it means blood was found and further investigation, usually a colonoscopy, is recommended to find the cause.

If you have a positive result, book an appointment with your GP to discuss the next steps and referral.

Symptoms that should not wait

Screening is for people without symptoms. If you notice blood in your bowel motions, a change in bowel habits that lasts more than a few weeks, unexplained weight loss, ongoing abdominal pain or unexplained tiredness, see a GP rather than waiting for a screening kit.

A family history of bowel cancer may mean you need a different screening approach. Talk to a GP about your individual risk.

Lowering your risk

Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, eating plenty of fibre, wholegrains, fruit and vegetables, limiting red and processed meat, avoiding smoking and keeping alcohol low all support bowel health.

Screening regularly, even if you feel well, gives the best chance of finding changes early when they are easier to treat.

Why screening from 45 matters

Research has shown rising rates of bowel cancer in Australians under 50, which led to the decision to lower the screening age. Bowel cancer often develops from small growths called polyps that can take years to become cancerous. Screening can find signs of these changes early, when they are much easier to treat.

Many people with early bowel cancer have no symptoms at all, which is why screening is recommended even if you feel completely well.

Common reasons people put off the test

Some people feel embarrassed or squeamish about collecting a sample, are worried about the result, or simply forget. The test is designed to be hygienic, private and quick, and the collection paper keeps the sample clean.

Set a reminder on your phone when your kit arrives, keep it somewhere visible, and complete it within the time frame in the instructions. If you have lost or damaged your kit, you can request a replacement.

What a colonoscopy involves

If you are referred for a colonoscopy after a positive screening result, a specialist uses a thin flexible camera to look inside the bowel. It is usually done under sedation, and polyps can often be removed during the same procedure.

Preparation involves a special diet and bowel preparation the day before. Your doctor or the endoscopy service will give you clear instructions and explain any costs.

Getting help in Morisset

If you have questions about the test, have lost your kit or received a positive result, book a consultation at Morisset Doctors through HotDoc or call reception on (02) 4006 8222.

Make sure your contact details and nominated GP are up to date with the screening register so your results reach you.

Frequently asked questions

This article provides general health information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Everyone's situation is different. Please book an appointment to discuss your own health. In an emergency, call 000.