There is an urgent need for Logan locals to take bowel cancer tests, experts say, with only 28% of eligible residents testing.
The Australian Government’s Get behind it! program has toured Logan to boost the city’s low screening test rate.
If found early, more than 90% of bowel cancer cases can be successfully treated, the government says.
Eligible residents aged 50-74 can sign up to receive free test kits in the mail every two years.
Program ambassador Dr Andrew Rochford encouraged people to complete the free bowel cancer test, and to have conversations with friends and family about the program.
“It’s important that we get out there and talk to communities about the importance of bowel cancer screening and being proactive about our health,” Dr Rochford said.
“Regular screening will help to save lives, and I strongly encourage eligible participants to do their test when it arrives in the mail and to encourage the people you love to do the same.
“If you see the community event trailer out on the road, come and say hello, and find out how this simple and free test is saving lives.”
Despite being one of the most deadly cancers, only 40% of the six million eligible Australian’s participate in the free bowel cancer testing program.
The program predicts raising the participation rate to 60% will save 84,000 lives.
Book your testing kit here: health.gov.au/our-work/national-bowel-cancer-screening-program
