Bowel screening saves lives
Bowel screening can save lives by finding bowel cancer early. At least nine out of 10 people will survive bowel cancer if it is picked up and treated early. Taking part in bowel screening is something you can do to look after your health.
If you are aged 50 to 74, live in Wales and are registered at a doctor’s surgery, you will automatically receive a free NHS bowel screening test kit in the post every two years. The test looks for hidden blood in your poo. This could be a sign of bowel cancer or other changes.
The test kit, which you complete at home, is quick and easy to use with just one poo sample needed. Once you have completed the test, send it back in the post. Your results are sent by post within two weeks. The test does not tell you if you have bowel cancer, but the results will tell you if you need further tests. Taking part in bowel screening is your choice.
You can watch a short video on our website that tells you about bowel screening and shows you how to complete the test kit. It is important you understand the information before you take part. The information letter and leaflet you are sent with your bowel screening test kit can help you make your decision.
Bowel screening is not 100% accurate, but taking part in screening can help find changes early when they are easier to treat. If you notice a change in your bowel health, even if you have done your bowel test kit, speak to your doctor.
If you have any questions about bowel screening, need a new test kit, or need help completing the test, you can contact us:
- Freephone helpline: 0800 294 3370
- Visit: www.phw.nhs.wales/bowel-screening
- Email: bowel-screening@wales.nhs.uk
We welcome correspondence in Welsh. We will respond in Welsh without delay.
For further information about bowel screening in Wales, including information in Easy Read and Audio please visit: www.phw.nhs.wales/bowel-screening