Overview

• The NHS is posting FIT bowel cancer screening kits to people born between 1951 and 1975 as part of the routine two‑year programme.
• In a message on X, the NHS told recipients to complete the test promptly, saying, "put it by the loo. Don't put it off."
• The home test involves collecting a stool sample and posting it for analysis to detect blood that could signal cancer before symptoms appear.
• People aged 75 or older can still be screened every two years by requesting a kit from the bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 6060.
• Cancer Research UK reports about 44,100 UK cases and 16,800 deaths each year, and with cases rising in under‑50s, anyone with symptoms should contact their GP.