Doctors are urging Victorians aged 45 to 74, including those from Punjabi communities, to complete regular screening for Bowel cancer every two years, as part of efforts to improve early detection and treatment outcomes.
The reminder comes as participation rates in some multicultural communities remain lower than expected, prompting renewed awareness efforts. Health professionals say this gap is particularly important given that bowel cancer can develop without clear symptoms and may affect people regardless of diet, lifestyle, or family history.
Victorian doctor Dr Bhajanpreet Rawal said screening plays a key role in identifying early signs of the disease. She encouraged eligible people to complete the test without delay, noting that many individuals may feel healthy and assume they are not at risk.
“Bowel screening is really important for your health. We want everyone who is eligible to do it straight away,” Dr Rawal said. “If you’re aged 45 to 74, you must do the free bowel screening test.”
Public health experts also point to research indicating that awareness levels and perceptions of risk can vary across communities. Findings from the Centre for Behavioural Research in Cancer suggest some people may underestimate their risk or feel uncertain about the accuracy of screening tests. Others may lack confidence in completing the test at home.
According to Cancer Council Victoria, early detection remains one of the most effective ways to reduce deaths from bowel cancer. More than 90 per cent of cases can be treated successfully if identified early.
Kate Broun, Head of Screening, Early Detection and Immunisation, said increasing participation in screening programmes is a priority, particularly among multicultural communities.
“Everyone aged 45 to 74, including those from Punjabi communities, needs to do a bowel screening test,” she said. “You may have no signs or symptoms and feel healthy, but you could still have bowel cancer.”
In Australia, eligible people aged 50 to 74 receive a free test kit every two years through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program. Those aged 45 to 49 can request their first kit through the National Cancer Screening Register, while others can ask their doctor for a test.
The test is designed to be simple and can be completed at home, with samples sent for analysis. Health authorities say completing the screening could make a difference in identifying early-stage cancer and improving treatment outcomes.
Cancer Council Victoria is also working to provide information tailored to Punjabi-speaking communities, aiming to address concerns and improve understanding of the screening process.
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