Don’t take the risk, take the free bowel screening test!

Eligible Australians aged 50 to 74 years are sent a free bowel screening test every two years as part of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP). People aged 45 to 49 can request a free kit online at  www.ncsr.gov.au/boweltest or by calling the National Cancer Screening Register on 1800 627 701.

Bowel screening participation has in the NBCSP sits at only 44.3 per cent in Victoria (2022–2023). However, more than 90 per cent of bowel cancers can be successfully treated if they are found early. That’s why we are encouraging all Victorians aged 45 to 74 to do the free bowel screening test – it can save your life.

Bowel cancer can develop without any symptoms and with no family history. The earlier bowel cancer is found, the better our chances of treating it. The free bowel screening test is easy, quick and can be done in the comfort of your own home.

It is important that all Victorians aged 45 to 74 complete the bowel screening test every two years, even if you feel fit and healthy, the test can find signs of cancer before symptoms occur.

Learn more about bowel screening or request a replacement test at Cancer Council Victoria’s website  cancervic.org.au/bowel.