April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month
Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK. It is the third most common. Finding it early makes it much easier to treat.
Screening can find bowel cancer before you notice any symptoms.
Who is bowel screening for?
The NHS offers bowel cancer screening to people aged 50 to 74.
- You will get an invite in the post
- It comes automatically when you reach the right age
- It is repeated every 2 years
- If you are 75 or over, you can ask for a kit by calling 0800 707 60 60
What is the FIT test?
The test is called a FIT kit.
It checks for tiny amounts of blood in your poo. You may not see this blood.
The test is simple and done at home.
- You get the kit in the post
- You only need one small sample
- You use a small stick in the kit
- You put the sample in a bottle
- You post it back for free
No clinic visit is needed.
Even if you feel well, you should still do the test.
Why the test is important
Most people have a normal result.
- About 97 to 98 in 100 people do not need more tests
- About 2 to 3 in 100 people are asked to have more tests
- Of those, about 7 to 10 in 100 may have bowel cancer found
Finding cancer early gives the best chance of treatment.
In the UK, someone dies from bowel cancer about every 30 minutes.
Don’t delay your kit
If you get a kit, try to do it straight away. It is quick and easy.
Tips to help:
- 🚽 Keep it by your toilet
- 👓 Read the simple steps on the box lid
- ⌚️ Do it as soon as it arrives
- 📩 Post it back right away
It only takes one small sample. But it can make a big difference.
What if I am at higher risk?
Some people have a higher risk of bowel cancer due to a condition called Lynch syndrome.
- About 1 in 400 people in England have it
- Most people do not know they have it
- It increases the risk of bowel cancer
If you have Lynch syndrome, you may be offered:
- A colonoscopy every 2 years
- Regular checks to look for early signs of cancer
These checks can stop cancer developing in many cases.
Stay up to date
You can get reminders and messages through the NHS App.
This can help you:
- 💭 Remember when your kit is due
- ⏩ Get results faster
- ✅ Keep track of your health checks
Get help or find out more
For more information, visit: nhs.uk/bowel
Or call 0800 707 60 60 if you have questions about screening or need a kit (age 75+).