Written and reviewed by Dr Ali Zad, FRACP gastroenterologist, Brisbane. Last reviewed November 2026 against current Australian and international guidelines. General information only, not a substitute for personal medical advice.
On this page
Who should be screened for bowel cancer?
Under the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, Australians aged 45 to 74 can do a free home test (iFOBT) every two years. Kits are mailed automatically from age 50 to 74. Since 1 July 2024, people aged 45 to 49 can request their first kit through the National Cancer Screening Register (online or on 1800 627 701), and will then receive one every two years. People with a strong family history or certain conditions may need colonoscopy instead, sometimes starting earlier.
Guideline: National Bowel Cancer Screening Program; Cancer Council Australia, 2024.
What should I do if my screening test is positive?
A positive result means blood was found in the stool and needs investigation, even if you feel well. Most positive results are not cancer, but you should see your GP and have a colonoscopy, which guidelines recommend within 30 days of referral.
Guideline: National Bowel Cancer Screening Program; Colonoscopy categorisation guidelines.
What are bowel polyps?
Polyps are small growths on the bowel lining. Some types can slowly turn into cancer over many years. Removing them during colonoscopy is one of the most effective ways to prevent bowel cancer. The timing of your next colonoscopy depends on the number, size and type of polyps removed, and your specialist will advise you.
Guideline: Cancer Council Australia colonoscopy surveillance guidelines.
Related procedures and information
Book an appointment
If you have symptoms of bowel cancer screening and polyps, see your GP or book a consultation with gastroenterologist Dr Ali Zad on (07) 2111 2600 or request an appointment online. You can book directly; a GP referral is needed for a Medicare rebate.
Dr Zad consults and performs procedures across Brisbane and Moreton Bay: Brisbane City and Spring Hill, North Lakes, Caboolture, Everton Park, Taringa and Redcliffe and Kippa-Ring.
See Dr Zad near you
Dr Ali Zad consults and performs gastroscopy and colonoscopy at seven hospitals:
- Gastroenterologist Brisbane City – Brisbane Private and St Andrew’s, Spring Hill
- Gastroenterologist Caboolture – Caboolture Private Hospital
- Gastroenterologist Redcliffe – Peninsula Private Hospital, Kippa-Ring
- Gastroenterologist Everton Park – North West Private Hospital
- Gastroenterologist North Lakes – North Lakes Day Hospital
- Gastroenterologist Taringa – Westside Private Hospital
- Gastroenterologist Bribie Island – consultations in Bongaree
Book on (07) 2111 2600 or request an appointment online.
