Bowel Cancer Screening Test

Why would I use the Bowel Cancer Screening Test?

You would use the Bowel Cancer Home Test if you are experiencing symptoms such as blood in your stool, frequent stomach pains, or if you simply want to monitor your bowel health. Early detection of bowel cancer significantly increases the chances of effective treatment.

What does the Bowel Cancer Screening Test test for?

The test detects hidden or ‘occult’ blood in your stool, which can indicate the presence of bowel cancer, polyps, colitis, diverticulitis, or other gastrointestinal conditions.

What is the process for using the Bowel Cancer Screening Test?

The test involves collecting a stool sample at home, placing it in the pre-paid envelope provided, and sending it to our accredited UK laboratory. The sample is then analysed, and results are sent to you within 3-5 working days.

What are the benefits of the Bowel Cancer Screening Test?

The benefits include the convenience of testing at home, early detection of potential health issues, and fast results. This test helps identify hidden blood in your stool, which can be an early indicator of bowel cancer or other serious conditions, enabling timely medical intervention.

Are there any restrictions for the Bowel Cancer Screening Test?

Yes, specimens should not be collected during or within three days of a menstrual period, or if you have bleeding haemorrhoids or blood in your urine. Additionally, alcohol, aspirin, and other medications that may cause gastrointestinal irritation should be discontinued 48 hours before testing. You also need to be over the age of 18 years old to take this test.

What do my results mean?

Your results will indicate whether blood was detected in your stool. Here is what your result means for your health:

• Not detected: No blood detected.
• <4: Traces of blood detected but below the lowest quantifiable level.
• 4-9: Blood detected and quantifiable but below the level considered abnormal by NICE guidelines.
• 10-200: Further investigation is required according to NICE guidelines.
• 200: Urgent further investigation is required.

A positive result for blood in your stool indicates possible bleeding in your digestive tract, but it does not necessarily mean you have cancer. Other conditions such as ulcers, haemorrhoids, and benign tumours could also cause this result. Follow-up procedures are necessary to determine the source of the bleeding.

What's included with the Bowel Cancer Screening Test?

The test includes a stool sample collection kit, a pre-paid envelope for sending your sample to the laboratory, and a detailed report of your results. If needed, additional resources and information on follow-up procedures will be provided.