Bowel Cancer Awareness Month 

June is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to have important conversations about one of the country’s most preventable yet deadly diseases. Understanding bowel cancer risks is a crucial part of maintaining your independence and wellbeing, particularly for those choosing to age at home. 

The Reality for Older Adults 

Bowel cancer is the second-highest cause of cancer death in New Zealand, but here’s the encouraging news: it’s 90% curable when caught early. For adults over 60, this statistic becomes even more significant, as age is one of the primary risk factors for developing bowel cancer. 

Early detection through regular screening and awareness of symptoms can make all the difference between a treatable condition and a life-threatening one. 

Understanding Your Screening Options 

Free National Bowel Screening Programme 

If you’re aged 60-74, New Zealand’s National Bowel Screening Programme offers free screening every two years. The programme is expanding, with the screening age lowering to 58 in stages beginning October 2025. You don’t need to do anything – an invitation will arrive around your birthday with everything you need. 

The screening test, called a Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), is designed to be simple and discreet. You complete it privately at home, checking for tiny traces of blood in your bowel motion that may indicate pre-cancerous polyps or early-stage cancer. The test is clean, quick, and simple – perfectly aligned with maintaining your dignity and independence at home. 

When Screening Isn’t Right for You 

Screening isn’t appropriate if you have current bowel cancer symptoms, have had a recent colonoscopy, or are already under medical supervision for bowel issues. In these cases, seeing your GP directly is the best course of action. 

Know the Warning Signs 

Don’t wait for a screening invitation if you’re experiencing symptoms. See your GP immediately if you notice: 

• Bleeding from the bottom 

• Changes in bowel habits 

• Abdominal pain 

• Unexplained tiredness or weight loss 

• Anaemia 

• A lump or mass in the abdomen 

Remember, symptoms can come and go, so don’t dismiss concerns regardless of your age. 

Taking Action: Steps You Can Take Today 

1. Keep Your Details Current: Ensure your GP has your correct address so screening invitations reach you. You can also email updates to info@bowelscreening.health.nz. 

2. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle at Home: Your daily choices significantly impact your bowel cancer risk: 

• Eat a diet rich in fibre, including fruits, vegetables, and wholegrains 

• Limit red and processed meats 

• Stay physically active – even gentle daily movement helps 

• Maintain a healthy weight 

• Limit alcohol consumption 

• Don’t smoke 

3. Talk to Your Support Network: Whether it’s family, your Dovida caregiver, or your Circle of Care, discuss your health concerns openly. Having trusted people who understand your health needs ensures you’re supported in making informed decisions. 

4. Regular GP Check-ups Maintain regular contact with your GP, especially if you have a family history of bowel cancer or other risk factors. 

Your Health, Your Way 

At Dovida, we understand that health decisions are deeply personal. Our caregivers are trained to support you in maintaining your health routines and can provide gentle reminders about important health screenings. We’re here to help you navigate these important health decisions while respecting your independence and choices. 

This Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, take control of your health. Whether it’s completing a screening test, scheduling a GP appointment, or simply starting conversations about bowel health with your loved ones, every action you take is a step towards continuing to live your life, your way. 

Visit Bowel screening for more information. 

Your health matters. Your choices matter. This June, make bowel health awareness a priority.