Self-test Bowel Cancer Kits

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PDF printable version of Self-test Bowel Cancer Kits (PDF 22 KB)

11 May 2009

I am very concerned that the results provided to some participants in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program may not be accurate. I am advised that these accuracy issues relate only to those tests taken since 1 December 2008.

This program has been an effective and important part of our strategy to combat bowel cancer, the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia. Early detection by screening remains the best way to fight bowel cancer.

I would like to reassure the community, and specifically those who have participated in the early detection program, that a number of steps are now being taken to ensure the integrity of the program.

Every one of the 475,000 participants will be individually contacted to advise them of the issue, and each will also be provided with a new, reliable, test as soon as possible.

My Department has commenced urgent discussions with the suppliers of the kits, Dorevitch Pathology, to verify and eliminate the cause of the problem.

The Department has identified this problem early and taken immediate action, and will take all necessary steps to remedy the situation over the coming weeks.

I would urge any participants who are concerned about the accuracy of their result to contact their doctor.

I will continue to closely monitor this situation, with the health and wellbeing of the participants as the highest priority.

I am awaiting advice on any legal or financial recourse available to the Government as a result of this investigation and re-testing process. The Government will be seeking to recoup any cost incurred by the taxpayer as a result of this process.

Media contacts: Minister’s office 02 6277 7220