The NHS has confirmed that automatic at-home cancer testing kits will be sent to older adults aged 50 to 74 to screen for bowel cancer. The faecal immunochemical test (FIT) requires a stool sample, which is posted to a lab to check for blood—a possible sign of bowel cancer. The kits are free and dispatched automatically every two years to eligible households registered with a GP.
Low Uptake Among Younger Age Groups
Despite the convenience, health officials have raised concerns about low participation among people in their 50s. New figures from NHS England show that only 56.2% of 54-year-olds completed the test in the 12 months from April 2024 to March 2025, compared to 73.5% of those in their 70s. Overall uptake fell to 65.2% from 67.6% the previous year.
The NHS sends approximately 8.7 million FIT tests annually, with nearly 5.2 million returned last year. Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, urged participation: “People have extremely busy lives but we are concerned about the low numbers of people in their 50s returning their bowel screening kits. So if you remember Scott and Charlene’s iconic Neighbours wedding, it’s probably your time to do a test.”
How the Test Works
The FIT kit includes a sample bottle, an envelope, and instructions. After providing a sample, results are typically mailed within two weeks. If no blood is found, no further action is needed. If blood is detected, the patient is invited for a specialist nurse appointment and usually a colonoscopy. However, blood does not always indicate cancer—common causes include anal fissures or bowel polyps.
Eligibility criteria: Adults aged 50 to 74 registered with a GP automatically receive a kit every two years. First tests are sent at age 50, 52, or 54 depending on birth date. Those aged 75 or over can request a kit by calling the bowel cancer screening helpline at 0800 707 6060. People without a permanent address can ask their GP to send the kit to the surgery or an alternative address.
Expert Calls for Action
Genevieve Edwards, chief executive of Bowel Cancer UK, emphasized the importance of participation: “If you’re in your 50s, you may now receive a screening kit through the post for the first time. Every completed kit is an opportunity to detect bowel cancer early or even prevent it altogether. It only takes a few minutes to do at home, but those few minutes could make a life-changing difference. Don’t put it off, complete your kit and return it as soon as you can.”
