The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program has been sending free bowel screening kits to eligible Australians since 2006. As of 1 July, the screen age has been lowered from 50-74, to now also include 45–49-year-olds, who can register to receive kits for early testing. We spoke to several Arabic-speaking NBCSP participants to learn about their experiences. Below is one such experience shared by Lina Warden, a home care support worker, who shared her unique experience of taking the at-home bowel cancer screening test
Lina’s Journey with Bowel Cancer Screening
Lina Warden, a 59-year-old woman, was born and raised in Lebanon before migrating to Australia in 1987 with her husband and two children in search of a safer life. Today, she works as a home care support worker, assisting the elderly in their daily needs
Lina first learned about bowel cancer screening when her husband received his kit shortly after turning 50. Having lost her mother to colon cancer, she naturally worried about her own health. As a healthcare worker, she understood the importance of early detection, and when she turned 50 two months later, she eagerly awaited the arrival of her screening kit
Her Screening Experience
When Lina received her kit, she had no hesitation in taking the test. Although she initially felt uncomfortable about collecting a poo sample, she found the process simple, hygienic, and easy to follow, thanks to the clear instructions and step-by-step guide available on the program’s website. To ensure she didn’t forget, she placed the kit in her bathroom and set a reminder on her phone to complete the test the next morning
Reflecting on her experience, Lina shared
The bowel screening process was really easy, especially because the information was available in my language. I had no worries, and I was relieved when I received the results confirming that I was not affected
The Importance of Regular Screening
Having witnessed her mother’s battle with cancer, Lina strongly believes in the importance of regular screening. She explains
I saw my mother suffer from cancer. She didn’t have access to early screening like we do today. I’m grateful to live in a country that prioritises our health and provides free screening tests to help with early detection
Lina also shared her husband’s experience. He delayed taking the test for several years and only did it in his 60s after her repeated encouragement. Unfortunately, his results came back positive, requiring urgent medical intervention. Thankfully, the cancer was detected early, allowing for effective treatment
“We were lucky that the cancer was still in its early stages. If my husband had waited any longer, the outcome could have been much worse. Not everyone is this fortunate
Lina’s Message to the Arabic-Speaking Community
Lina urges her peers and the wider Arabic-speaking community to make bowel cancer screening a regular habit
Our health determines our quality of life, especially as we approach retirement age. Getting screened through this program gives you and your family peace of mind. Remember, you are the biggest beneficiary of taking the test. Don’t delay – detect cancer early by getting screened regularly. Make bowel screening a habit
We hope Lina’s story inspires Arabic-speaking Australians to participate in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program for a healthier and safer future. For help when screening, check the step-by-step animation video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JroHz4ro1G8&t=2s
Important Information About Bowel Screening
Bowel cancer is the second biggest cause of cancer death in Australia and can develop without symptoms or a family history. However, 90% of cases can be successfully treated if detected early
As of 1 July, the screening age has been lowered from 50-74, to now also include 45–49-year-olds
People aged 45 to 49 can request their first bowel cancer screening kit online via a webform on the program’s official website or by calling 1800 627 701
Individuals aged 50 to 74 will continue to receive a free bowel screening kit in the mail every two years
For more information 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