Screening is important, even without Symptoms
Bowel cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia, often developing silently without any visible symptoms. The risk of bowel cancer increases with age, which is why the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) offers free screening kits to Australians aged 45 to 74
Since July 1, 2024, individuals aged 45 to 49 can request their first screening kit. Those aged 50 to 74 continue to receive the screening kit by mail every two years
What is the National Bowel Cancer Screening program
The NBCSP test provides a simple, free, and effective way to check for the early signs of bowel cancer
If detected early, 90% of all bowel cancers can be successfully treated. Therefore, it is important to screen regularly even if you feel perfectly healthy. Regular screening increases the chances of successful treatment, securing a long and healthy life for you and your loved ones
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What is Bowel Cancer
Bowel cancer can happen in any part of the colon or rectum. It starts when abnormal growths, known as polyps, form in the lining of the bowel. While most polyps are harmless, some can develop into cancer over time. The challenge with bowel cancer is that it often develops without any warning signs or symptoms, meaning you could have bowel cancer and not know it. This is why screening is essential
The Role of Screening
The bowel cancer screening test provided under the NBCSP is the Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT). This test can detect tiny amounts of blood in the stool, which may be an early sign of cancer or pre-cancerous polyps
The FOBT can detect blood from polyps that might become cancerous. Identifying and removing these polyps can prevent bowel cancer from developing in the first place. Early detection through screening significantly increases the chances of successful treatment
Remember, screening is not just about detecting cancer early; it is also a preventive measure
How to Get Screened
Getting screened for bowel cancer is simple and can be completed at home. As part of the NBCSP, a free bowel cancer screening kit is sent to all Australians between the ages of 50 and 74. If you are aged 45 to 49, you can request your first screening kit by submitting a web form available on the official campaign page- www.bowelcancer.org.au or by calling 1800 627 701
The kit includes everything you may need and comes with instructions on how to use it. The process involves taking small samples from two separate bowel movements using the provided kit, testing them, and sending them back in the pre-paid envelope. The results are then sent to you and your nominated healthcare provider
An animated video is available to provide a step-by-step reference to the testing requirements, helping you complete the test successfully
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Don’t Wait. Get Tested Today!
Screening for bowel cancer is essential, even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms. Early detection is key to successful treatment, and regular screening is the best way to catch early signs
For more information, including multilingual resources, visit the Bowel Cancer Screening website: www.bowelcancer.org.au/arabic
Get tested today for your health and for the benefit of your loved one
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