Contents
― About the test
― What you can do
If you are aged 50-74, this information is for you.
- Doing your bowel screening kit reduces your risk of dying from bowel cancer by finding cancer early.
- People aged 50 to 74 are invited to take part in bowel screening every two years.
- Bowel screening is carried out in your own home.
- When you are due for screening you will be sent a bowel screening kit.
- The information leaflet will help you decide if you would like to take part.
- The test looks for hidden blood in your poo sample. If blood is found, you will be invited for further tests.
- If you have lost your test kit, made a mistake or have any concerns please contact the helpline.
- Like all medical tests, bowel screening is not 100% accurate.
- Take part in bowel screening every two years.
- Attend follow-ups if you are invited.
- Eat a balanced diet, be active, stop smoking, drink less alcohol and keep a healthy weight.
- It is important to visit your GP if you notice blood in your poo, a change in your bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, a pain or lump in your tummy or extreme tiredness.
To find out more contact the Freephone helpline: 0800 294 3370