Arabic Healthcare Interview: Geriatric Expert Dr. Mariam Joseph Highlights the Importance Of Bowel Screening.
In our quest to find more information about bowel cancer and the screening requirements under the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, we spoke to renowned Arabic doctor, Dr. Mariam Joseph.
Dr. Mariam Joseph is a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians and a member of the Australian and New Zealand Societies for Geriatric Medicine. She possesses a profound interest in palliative care medicine and is adept at handling complexities associated with geriatric syndromes, behavioural challenges in individuals with dementia, late-onset mental illnesses, and intricate medical issues.
Below are excerpts from the interview:
Q: Doctor, could you give us a brief overview of bowel cancer?
A: Bowel cancer is, unfortunately, the second leading cause of cancer death in Australia. It begins with the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, often starting as polyps, in the bowel. These polyps can sometimes become cancerous. It’s important to note that while blood in the stool can be a sign, it’s often not visible to the naked eye in the early stages. That is where the National Bowel Screening Program helps. The screening kit provided looks for traces of blood in the poo, providing a quick, clean and easy way to get tested at home. Regular screening ensures you pick up the early signs and can get treated early.
Q: Doctor, could you provide more details about the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program?
A: The program first started in 2006 and has since evolved. As of 1 July 2024, the eligible age has been lowered to include those aged 45 to 49, who can now register for their first testing kits online, over the phone or through a GP. If you’re 50-74, you’ll automatically receive the free test kit in the mail every two years, provided your Medicare details are up to date. A similar test kit can be purchased from pharmacies or online for those without Medicare. If you’ve ordered a kit online and it hasn’t arrived, you can check the official bowel screening page or call the National Bowel Cancer Screening Register. Ensuring your age and address details are up to date is vital for delivery.
Q: Why is screening so important?
A: You’ve hit on a crucial point. Bowel cancer in its early stages doesn’t present with noticeable symptoms, which is precisely why regular screening is so vital. Early testing is key for bowel cancer, if found early 90% of cases can be successfully treated, However, if you do experience symptoms such as blood in the stool, unexplained fatigue, sudden weight loss, persistent bloating, abdominal pain, or significant changes in bowel habits like severe diarrhea or constipation, it’s imperative to visit your GP promptly.
Q: What would you say are the common causes and risk factors for bowel cancer?
A: Bowel cancer can happen to anyone, with the risk likely to increase with age. There isn’t a single cause, but several factors can increase your risk. Lifestyle choices like a lack of exercise, an unhealthy diet (exceptionally high in processed and red meats), excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking are significant contributors. Beyond lifestyle, pre-existing bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, a personal history of polyps, and a family history of bowel cancer also elevate the risk. Also, as I mentioned earlier, bowel cancer is the second biggest killer in Australia, and even healthy individuals with good diets may get bowel cancer. Therefore, regular testing is a critical practice to keep these risks at bay.
Q: What if someone falls outside the eligible age range but is concerned about bowel cancer?
A: Individuals outside the 45-74 age group can still get tested if they are experiencing symptoms. Individuals concerned about bowel cancer, should speak to their GP. Your doctor can recommend the best course of action for you based on your personal needs. If you are displaying any symptoms of bowel cancer such as a change in bowel habits, blood in poo or rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, cramping or bloating, unexplained weight loss, fatigue or weakness, please speak to your GP immediately.
Q: How do individuals use the test kit, and where can they find help if needed?
A: The free bowel test kit comes with clear instructions and diagrams to guide you through the process. Additionally, the Bowel Screening website offers a wealth of information and instructional videos in multiple languages. If you need further assistance, family members or your GP can also provide guidance. It’s very important to follow the instructions correctly to ensure accurate results.
Q: What kind of support is available if someone receives a positive test result through the national program?
A: Firstly, it’s important to note that a positive test result does not mean you have bowel cancer. It means traces of blood were found in your sample, which could be due to polyps or haemorrhoids and require further checking. You will receive a letter asking you to consult a doctor about follow-up tests.
If cancer is detected, your doctor can help with further treatment support. The national program also offers significant support. This includes providing comprehensive information, as well as emotional, spiritual, and even financial assistance. Patients are referred to specialists, and psychological or family support services can also be accessed to help them and their loved ones navigate the diagnosis. You can check the Support and Services page on the Cancer Council Australia website to learn more about this.
Q: What’s your final message to our readers?
A: If eligible, please participate in regular screening every two years. Keep the test kit in line of sight and remember to do the test. If you think you may forget, enrol for the reminder service available on the bowel screening website. The bowel screening website provides information, advice and resources in Arabic for individuals to get tested easily.
It’s a simple test and a simple practice that helps you keep you safe. If you’re confused, worried or have more questions, speak to a GP.
To read more about bowel screening in Arabic and to download resources, visit www.bowelcancer.org.au/arabic or speak to your GP about the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
If you need to speak with someone in Arabic, call the Translating and Interpreting Service at 13 14 50 and ask to be connected to the National Cancer Screening Register.
If you are 50 to 74 and still haven’t received your kit, or if you are 45 to 49 and want to request your first free screening kit, please check the National Cancer Screening Register and complete the online form or call 1800 627 701.
Disclaimer: This article is written in partnership with the Australian Government’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Program and Cancer Council Australia. All key information has been derived from the campaign website and expressed in editorial language.