Test results: What happens next?

Once you have returned the test, the Bowel Screening Centre will send you the result within two weeks. Most people will have a ‘negative’ result, which means that no blood was found in the samples you gave.

No screening test is 100% reliable and problems can arise between screening tests. You should always be on the look-out for possible changes in your bowel habits. If you notice symptoms in between screening tests, please go to your GP.

If your result comes back showing that blood has been found in the samples, you will be contacted by a health professional. The next stage of tests will then be explained to you. Colonoscopy is the most effective test for finding bowel cancer. This requires an out-patient appointment where the bowel is examined using a flexible tube with a camera.

If you want more information on colonoscopy, please contact the Bowel Screening Centre Helpline on 0800 0121 833.

Going to the toilet: what to look out for

• Repeated bleeding from your bottom or blood in your motions.
• A recent change in bowel habit that goes on day in day out for over 6 weeks without going back to normal.
• Looser motions or alternating with constipation (constipation alone is less likely to be serious).
• Pains in the tummy that are severe, continual and have started recently, especially after eating.
• You have recently lost weight without trying.
• You have been told that you are anaemic or look pale and feel tired much of the time.

These symptoms may be caused by a number of conditions including cancer but, if you have any of the above, make an appointment to see your doctor.