Bowel Cancer Screening - Compare Private Testing Options
Compare private bowel cancer screening providers and find the right service for your needs.
Understanding Bowel Cancer Screening
Bowel cancer screening aims to detect cancer at an early stage or find polyps that could develop into cancer. Private bowel screening may include:
- FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test)
- Colonoscopy (for high-risk individuals)
- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
The NHS offers bowel cancer screening every two years for adults aged 60-74 in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and from age 50 in Scotland. Private screening can be accessed at any age.
Check4Cancer Bowel Cancer Screening
Starting price: £149
Results typically available in 5 days
Available as: Home test kit and Clinic visit
Specialised cancer screening services
Medichecks Bowel Cancer Screening
Starting price: £129
Results typically available in 4 days
Available as: Home test kit and Clinic visit
Accredited UK laboratory testing
London Medical Laboratory Bowel Cancer Screening
Starting price: £179
Results typically available in 3 days
Available as: Clinic visit
Multiple London locations
Nuffield Health Bowel Cancer Screening
Starting price: £199
Results typically available in 5 days
Available as: Clinic visit
Comprehensive health assessments
Spire Healthcare Bowel Cancer Screening
Starting price: £189
Results typically available in 7 days
Available as: Clinic visit
Private hospitals across the UK
Popular Bowel Cancer Screening Providers
| Provider | Bowel Screening ↑ | Turnaround Time | Collection Method | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medichecks | £129.00 | 4 working days | Home kit or Clinic | Accredited UK laboratory testing |
| Check4Cancer | £149.00 | 5 working days | Home kit or Clinic | Specialised cancer screening services |
| London Medical Laboratory | £179.00 | 3 working days | Clinic | Multiple London locations |
| Spire Healthcare | £189.00 | 7 working days | Clinic | Private hospitals across the UK |
| Nuffield Health | £199.00 | 5 working days | Clinic | Comprehensive health assessments |
4 working days
Home kit or Clinic
Accredited UK laboratory testing
5 working days
Home kit or Clinic
Specialised cancer screening services
3 working days
Clinic
Multiple London locations
7 working days
Clinic
Private hospitals across the UK
5 working days
Clinic
Comprehensive health assessments
Key Information About Bowel Screening
Screening Features
Home Testing Available
Most providers offer FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) kits that can be completed at home.
Follow-up Care
Private providers typically include clinical support if your test results indicate the need for further investigation.
Comprehensive Testing
Some private packages include additional markers beyond what is tested in standard NHS screening.
Risk Factors
These factors may increase your risk of bowel cancer and the need for regular screening:
- Family history of bowel cancer
- Age (risk increases significantly after 50)
- Personal history of polyps
- Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohns disease, ulcerative colitis)
- Type 2 diabetes
- High consumption of processed/red meat
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Obesity or overweight
NHS vs Private Bowel Screening
NHS Bowel Screening
- Available for adults aged 60-74 (England, Wales, Northern Ireland) or 50+ (Scotland)
- Invitation every 2 years
- Free of charge
- FIT test only (tests for hidden blood in stool)
Private Bowel Screening
- Available at any age
- Choose your preferred frequency
- May include additional markers and more comprehensive testing
- Option for direct referral to colonoscopy if needed
Bowel Cancer Screening Methods
FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test)
A home test kit that detects tiny amounts of blood in your stool, which could be an early sign of bowel cancer. Simple to use and typically involves collecting a small stool sample.
Colonoscopy
A procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon. Allows for direct visualization and removal of polyps if found. Typically performed in a clinic setting.
CT Colonography
Also known as virtual colonoscopy, uses CT scanning to create detailed images of the colon. Less invasive than standard colonoscopy but still requires bowel preparation.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Similar to colonoscopy but examines only the lower part of the colon. Quicker and may require less preparation than a full colonoscopy.
Important Information
Please note the following regarding bowel cancer screening:
- A positive FIT test does not necessarily mean you have cancer – it indicates the need for further investigation.
- If you experience symptoms such as blood in your stool, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or persistent abdominal pain, consult your GP immediately, regardless of screening.
- Regular screening is particularly important if you have a family history of bowel cancer or other risk factors.