The national free test is mailed to men and women, aged 50-74, but the majority of eligible recipients are not completing it.

Participation rates in Ballarat are 46 per cent, clear above the state rate of 39.9 per cent.

Bowel cancer is Australia’s second-largest cancer killer but more than 90 per cent of cases can be successfully treated if found early.

To share your story, phone Emma on (03) 9514 6455 or via email to emma.schreiber@cancervic.org.au

To find out more about the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program: http://www.cancerscreening.gov.au/bowel