Bowel Cancer
The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme checks if you could have bowel cancer. The earlier cancer is found, the more effective treatment is likely to be.
Bowel screening is offered to everyone aged 54 to 74 years (50 to 74 by 2025) every 2 years.
If you’re 75 or over, you can ask for a kit every 2 years by phoning the free bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 60 60.
Learn more about Bowel Cancer Screenings
If I have symptoms
Always see a GP if you have symptoms of bowel cancer at any age, even if you have recently completed an NHS bowel cancer screening test kit. Do not wait to have a screening test.
What is Bowel screening?
Bowel screening involves collecting a small sample of poo on a sample stick (faecal immunochemical test- FIT) and sending it back in the post. This tests for small amounts of blood in the poo.
How to get a home test kit
You will automatically be sent a test kit in the post when you are eligible.
Bowel screening is offered to everyone aged 54 to 74 years (50 to 74 by 2025) every 2 years.
You are automatically sent an NHS bowel cancer screening kit in the post.
Make sure your GP practice has your correct address, so your kit is posted to the right place.
If you're 75 or over, you can ask for a kit every 2 years by phoning the free bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 60 60. Call this number if you need to replace a lost kit.
How to use the home test kit
- Using your bowel cancer screening kit on Vimeo
- You can also find NHS bowel cancer screening kit instructions on GOV.UK
