If you’re 50 or over, there’s a non-invasive test you can do at home to determine whether you might have the early signs of bowel cancer.
Known as a ‘FOBtest’ (Faecal Occult Blood Test) the test is used to detect bleeding in the lower bowel.
Various companies produce these tests, which can be completed in the privacy of your home and posted in the mail. The results will be mailed confidentially to you and your nominated GP.
The screening tests vary in price, but generally cost less than $50 including postage and handling – a small price to pay or your peace of mind.
Some people might also be eligible for a free FOBtest as part of the Federal Government’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
How to obtain a FOBtest
Some people might also be eligible for a free FOBtest as part of the Federal Government’s National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
The Federal Government's current National Bowel Cancer Screening Program offers free Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBtest) screening to people turning 50, 55 or 65 years of age between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2010.
These tests are sent out free-of-charge to eligible Australians. More information on the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program is available by phone on 1800 118 868 or at www.cancerscreening.gov.au
Other ways to obtain a FOBtest
Currently Medicare rebates are not available for bowel cancer screening tests, so those people not eligible to participate in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program will need to purchase a FOBtest, via one of the following methods…
| Option 1: |
Click here to visit a third-party website that offers FOBtest kits for purchase online. |
| Option 2: |
Freecall 1800 55 65 75 - to order a FOBtest from a third-party supplier by telephone. |
| Option 3: |
Some pharmacies sell FOBtests. |
| Option 4: |
See your GP for a FOBtest which can be done at home then sent, with your payment, to a laboratory for processing. |
| Option 5: |
The BowelScan Program, run by Rotary, offers test kits for purchase through selected pharmacies. |
| Option 6: |
Selected health funds provide FOBtests to their members. |
Note: The Bayer Detect FOBtest (currently used by the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program) is not currently commercially available to the public, but may be in the future.
Disclaimer
The FOBtest screening kits referred to on this site - and any subsequent pathology reports - are offered only by third-party suppliers and as such, we cannot warrant the accuracy of the tests or the results. Neither Let's Beat Bowel Cancer nor Cabrini Health or its agencies are liable for services, products or reports provided by these third-party test providers.
