National Bowel Cancer Screening Program resumed in Wide Bay and Fraser Coast Health Services
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program resumed on 02 November 2009, with 61 968 replacement Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) kits having been sent out to eligible Queenslanders to date. The issue with the screening FOBT has been addressed and a replacement kit has been listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods. Replacement FOBTs are now being offered to affected people, who are encouraged to retake the test to obtain a reliable result. The majority of those affected by the faulty kits will receive a replacement kit by March 2010. People living in areas with hotter average monthly temperatures may receive their kits later in the first half of 2010 when the temperature is cooler.) People with a positive result are advised to consult their doctor as soon as possible.
Colonoscopy referral procedures for the Program in Queensland remain unchanged. The Program aims to provide assessment colonoscopies for Program participants who receive a positive FOBT within 30 days of referral to a designated Queensland Health facility. To refer a Program participant for a public sector colonoscopy, please contact your local Program Gastroenterology Nurse Coordinator on 1300 766 927.
For further information on the Program recommencement visit www.cancerscreening.gov.au or contact the NBCSP Information Line on 1800 118 868. For local information regarding the Program, please contact your local Queensland Bowel Cancer Screening Program team on 1300 766 927 or visit www.health.qld.gov.au/bowelcancer.
