MPHN Supports National Bowel Cancer Screening Program

June is National Bowel Cancer Awareness Month and Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) has reminded people aged 50 to 74 years to participate in the bowel cancer screening test every two years.

MPHN Senior Manager Population Health Planning and Data, Dr Jason Bennie said detecting bowel cancer early could lead to successful treatment in more than 90 per cent of cases.

“Whilst bowel cancer screening participation in the Murrumbidgee region is slightly lower than the national average, detection of the cancer is higher than other regions around Australia,” Dr Bennie said.

The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program sends free bowel screening test kits in the mail to eligible Australians within the target age range of 50 to 74.

Principal doctor of Trinity Medical Centre, Dr Gracy Gouda said the home bowel cancer screening test was quick, clean and easy to do and could be completed in the comfort of one’s own home.

“Once the test is completed and mailed, the results will be sent to the patient and their GP within two weeks,” Dr Gouda said.

“Their GP will be in contact if they need to discuss their results further.

“People diagnosed through the National Cancer Screening Program have much better survival prospects and those who are eligible for a home test kit and have not participated yet are highly encouraged to do so.

“The COVID-19 pandemic put a strain on the health system where there may have been delays for testing, procedures and follow-up medical appointments.

“However, this should not deter anyone from conducting the home test kit, it could save your life.”

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