Overview

At The Pharmacy Network, our pharmacists support bowel cancer screening by helping patients access bowel cancer screening kits and understand the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP). Early detection is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of bowel cancer, and screening is recommended for many Australians even if they feel well.

Our pharmacists can help you understand how bowel cancer screening works, who should be screened, and how to complete the test correctly. This service is available across our Canberra pharmacies — The Pharmacy on Bunda, The Pharmacy on Northbourne, and The Pharmacy on Franklin — making it easy to access trusted health advice close to home.

Service Restrictions

Pharmacies are not able to distribute free, government-funded bowel cancer screening kits, however we sell bowel cancer screening kits for those who are not eligible for the government-funded program or who need to perform more frequent testing than is funded.

Why Bowel Cancer Screening Matters

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in Australia, but it is also one of the most treatable when detected early. According to the Australian Government National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, regular screening can significantly reduce deaths from bowel cancer by identifying early signs of disease before symptoms develop (Department of Health and Aged Care, 2024).

The screening test looks for small traces of blood in a stool sample that may not be visible to the eye. If detected early, further testing can be arranged through your GP.

How Our Pharmacists Can Help

At The Pharmacy Network, our pharmacists can:

• Explain how the bowel cancer screening test works
• Help determine whether you are eligible for government-funded screening
• Sell bowel cancer screening kits to people who do not yet qualify for the government-funded program
• Provide guidance on completing the test correctly
• Answer questions or concerns about the screening process
• Advise when follow-up with your GP may be required

Our pharmacists aim to make screening simple and approachable, helping remove barriers that may prevent people from completing their test.

Who Should Consider Screening

Bowel cancer screening is generally recommended for adults aged 45 to 74 years or those with symptoms, per the Cancer Council, particularly those who:

• Are eligible for the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program
• Have received a screening kit in the mail
• Have not completed a screening test recently
• Have concerns about bowel cancer risk
• Have symptoms they are concerned about

Screening may also be recommended for people with additional risk factors, including a family history of bowel cancer.

What to Expect at The Pharmacy Network

If you have questions about bowel cancer screening, our pharmacists can provide guidance during a quick consultation at any The Pharmacy Network location.

We will explain how the test works, discuss when screening is recommended, and help ensure you feel confident completing your test correctly at home.

When Referral Is Needed

Pharmacists cannot diagnose bowel cancer. If screening results are abnormal or if symptoms such as persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing abdominal pain occur, our pharmacists will recommend follow-up with your GP for further investigation.

A Simple Way to Support Your Health

If you're looking for bowel cancer screening information, where to purchase a bowel cancer screening kit, or help understanding your screening kit, our pharmacists at The Pharmacy Network are here to help.

Visit The Pharmacy on Bunda, The Pharmacy on Northbourne, or The Pharmacy on Franklin for trusted health advice and convenient support.

References

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.
 https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/national-bowel-cancer-screening-program

Cancer Council Australia. Bowel Cancer Information and Screening Guidance.
https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/screening-tests-and-treatments/early-detection-and-screening/bowel-cancer-screening