Bowel Screening Test

In many cases, early-stage bowel cancer may not present any noticeable symptoms. However, some individuals may experience bleeding from the bottom, blood in their stools, changes in your bowel motions in frequency, diarrhoea or constipation, stomach pain, including bloating and cramps, unexplained weight loss, anaemia, tiredness or weakness. Regular screening is crucial as it can detect cancer before symptoms appear.

Risk factors for bowel cancer include age (especially those over 50), a family history of bowel cancer, certain genetic conditions, a diet high in red or processed meats, low fibre intake, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and a sedentary lifestyle. Regular screening is recommended for individuals at higher risk.

Testing is essential because early detection of bowel cancer greatly improves the likelihood of successful treatment. Screening can identify cancer at a stage when it is most treatable, often before any symptoms have developed.

Bowel cancer screening tests typically involve a simple at-home test that checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer. If the test is positive, further diagnostic procedures, such as a colonoscopy, may be recommended.

The Smith Biomed Faecal Occult Blood Rapid Tests are available for purchase through various channels, including Chemist Warehouse, Pharmacy Direct, Zoom Pharmacy, local pharmacies and online retailers. Check with your local chemist for availability.

Preparation for a bowel cancer screening test is straightforward. Follow the instructions provided with your SBM test kit carefully. Specimens should not be collected during or within three days of a menstrual period, or if the patient suffers from bleeding haemorrhoids or blood in the urine. Alcohol , aspirin and other medications taken in excess may cause gastrointestinal irritation resulting in occult bleeding. Such substances should be discontinued at least 48 hours prior to testing. No dietary restrictions are necessary before using the FOB Rapid Test Cassette.

POSITIVE: Two coloured Iines appear. One coloured line should be in the control line region (C) and another coloured line should be in the test line region (T). NOTE: The intensity of the colour in the test line region (T) will vary depending on the concentration of Faecal Occult Blood present in the specimen. Therefore, any shade of colour in the test line region (T) should be considered positive. If your result is positive consult with your doctor.

NEGATIVE: One coloured line appears in the control line region (C). No line appears in the test line region (T).

INVALID: Control line fails to appear. Insufficient specimen volume or incorrect procedural techniques are the most likely reasons for control line failure. Review the procedure and repeat the test with a new test. If the problem persists, discontinue using the test kit immediately and contact your local distributor.

If your test results are abnormal, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider immediately. They will likely recommend additional tests, such as a colonoscopy, to determine if cancer or another condition is present.

To lower your risk of bowel cancer, maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fibre, limit red and processed meats, avoid smoking, reduce alcohol consumption, exercise regularly, and participate in regular screening, especially if you have risk factors.