Bowel screening in Northern Ireland
Aged 60-74? You’ll get a bowel cancer screening kit in the post every 2 years.
Bowel screening is for people with no symptoms and it can save lives. So when you’re invited, don’t ignore it.
How bowel screening helps beat cancer
Bowel cancer screening aims to prevent cancer, or find it an early stage when treatment is more likely to be successful. More than 9 out of 10 people survive bowel cancer for 5 years or more when diagnosed at the earliest stage*.
You must be registered with a GP to receive a screening kit. If you need to register, find a local GP here.
I encourage my patients to take part in bowel screening when they are eligible. If you need help, you can contact the bowel screening helpline. Most people do not need any further investigations after screening’ If you are called for further testing this does not mean you definitely have cancer. If concerned speak to your GP practice. By identifying a potential issue early this can result in early treatment, significantly increasing the chance of a successful outcome.
Dr Jonathan Dillon, Northern Ireland
The bowel screening process
Getting your kit
You will get a bowel screening kit (FIT test) in the post every 2 years. Read all the information and call the free bowel screening helpline on 0800 015 2514 if you have questions.
Doing the test
Follow the step-by-step instructions in your kit to collect your sample. Return it in the pre-paid envelope for testing.
Getting your results
You should get your results in the post within 2 weeks. They will say if you need further tests or not. Most people don't need these.
Bowel screening is your choice
Whether or not you go for screening is your choice. Read the information in your invitation and learn more about the bowel screening programme to decide if you’d like to take part.
All screening programmes have both possible benefits and risks, and the balance is different for each type of cancer screening.
James' story
Concerns or questions about bowel screening?
Some people might feel nervous or embarrassed about bowel screening, but there are ways to make the process feel easier for you. Don’t forget – thousands of people take part every year.
Know what to expect
Learning what to expect at your appointment can help you feel more prepared.
We also have advice on how to collect your sample and how to make the process easier for you.
Ask for support
Whether it’s your first bowel screening test or you’ve done it before, talking about it can help.
Contact the free bowel screening helpline on 0800 015 2514 if you have any questions. You can also talk to a friend or family member you trust.
Make screening work for you
From getting an invite to receiving your results, read our article for tips, advice and things you can do to make the screening process easier.
* More than 9 in 10 (93.5%) people diagnosed with bowel cancer in Northern Ireland survive their disease for five years or more when diagnosed at the earliest stage. https://crukcancerintelligence.shinyapps.io/EarlyDiagnosis/