News
20 July, 2024
45 is the new 50 for gut check
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program has announced it’s lowered the age of eligibility from 50 to 45.
West Moreton Health Cancer Screening Health Promotion Officer Leanne Kelly said people aged 45 to 49 years could now request a free bowel screening test.
“People aged 50 to 74 will continue to receive a test kit in the mail every two years,” Ms Kelly said.
Australia has one of the highest rates of bowel cancer in the world and is a major cause of cancer-related death for both men and women, with around 100 Australians dying from the disease every week.
It is also one of the most preventable cancers, and if detected early more than 90 per cent of cases can be successfully treated.
Ms Kelly said many people needed a little encouragement to prioritise their health.
“So if you know anyone aged 45 to 74 – a mate, a mum or a work colleague – we’d love if you could have a friendly banter about their bowels and remind them to take the test,” Ms Kelly said.
“The free test can help find early bowel changes, sometimes years before cancer develops.
“It’s a free and easy and literally takes a few minutes – and it could save your life.’’
People with signs, symptoms or a family history of bowel cancer, should talk to a doctor before participating in the screening program.
To request your fi rst kit or order a replacement, visit ncsr.gov.au/boweltest or phone the National Cancer Screening Register on 1800 627 701
