step 1

you're invited to take part

If you're eligible, you'll receive a letter and a bowel screening kit in the post. The invitation explains why you're being screened, how to complete the test, and where to get help if you have questions.

There's no need to book an appointment or visit a healthcare centre—the first stage of the screening is done entirely at home.

step 2

complete the home test

The kit asks you to collect a very small stool sample using the equipment provided. The instructions are straightforward, and once you've completed the sample, you simply return it using the prepaid packaging.

The laboratory checks the sample for tiny traces of blood that aren't visible to the naked eye. These traces don't necessarily mean you have bowel cancer—they can have many causes—but they can be an early sign that further investigation is needed.

step 3

if blood is detected

If the laboratory finds traces of blood, you'll be contacted and offered a colonoscopy. This allows doctors to examine the inside of your bowel more closely.

Most people who are invited for a colonoscopy do not end up being diagnosed with bowel cancer. However, the examination can detect polyps or other changes that can often be removed before they become cancerous.

step 4

ongoing screening

If your test result is normal, you don't need to do anything else until you're invited again as part of the national programme. Regular screening helps detect changes early, often before symptoms develop, when treatment is usually simpler and more effective.

David, 61, receives a letter containing a bowel screening kit. At first, he assumes it's been sent by mistake — he feels healthy and has no symptoms.

After reading the information, he realises it's part of Sweden's national bowel cancer screening programme. He completes the test in a few minutes at home and posts it back the same day. Whether the result is normal or requires further investigation, the programme is designed to detect potential problems as early as possible.