Overview

Australians aged 45 to 74 are eligible to do a bowel screening test every two years through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

Those aged 50-74 are automatically mailed a free test at home every two years by the NBCSP. After completing the test, they return it in a reply-paid envelope to the prescribed pathology lab. The participant and their doctor receive the result within four weeks.

From the 1st July 2024, the Australian Government lowered the eligible screening age from 50 to 45 years. Eligible people aged 45-49 can join by requesting their first bowel screening kit from the NBCSP. After requesting the first kit, their next kit will be automatically mailed to them two years after their last test result – consistent with existing program practice for people aged 50 to 74.

To achieve its aims, BCSA is conducting trials within the NBCSP which involve devising and testing novel prototype modifications related to the in-home test kits, then testing their effectiveness in increasing participation.

Learn more about the three steps in the BCSA research program, current studies and progress, and the impact of findings from our research.