Frequently asked questions
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Frequently asked questions about ColorectalScreen Norway
Invitation and Participation
Can I sign up for ColorectalScreen Norway?
Unfortunately, no. All residents in Norway will receive an invitation to participate in the programme the year they turn 55 (some may have turned 56 before receiving their first invitation, due to the phased introduction). The programme began its gradual rollout in spring 2022 and became nationwide in January 2024.
When can I expect an invitation to the screening programme?
The first invitations with the home test for blood in stool were sent out in May 2022. The programme became nationwide in January 2024. All men and women are invited to bowel cancer screening the year they turn 55. People born in 1967 were the first to receive the offer..
Why is screening offered at the age of 55?
When defining who should be offered screening, the expected benefits must be weighed against potential risks and disadvantages. The risk of bowel cancer increases with age, and more than half of cases are diagnosed in people over 70. Since bowel cancer develops slowly, it is possible to detect cancer or precancerous changes before they cause symptoms.
In 2017, the Norwegian Parliament decided that bowel cancer screening should be offered to men and women at the age of 55. This decision followed a comprehensive review by an expert group led by the Norwegian Directorate of Health.The screening program is organised in a way that allows for close monitoring and incorporation of new knowledge. This makes it possible to adjust the programme if new evidence becomes available. If you have symptoms, we recommend contacting your GP for an assessment.
Where will the invitation be sent?
If you have consented to use logged-in services at helsenorge.no, all letters except the invitation sent with the test kit will be delivered to your inbox on helsenorge.no.
If you have not given this consent, letters will be sent via secure digital mail or physical mail. The test kit will be sent by physical mail every two years as long as you are in the target group. We cannot send the kit to any address other than your registered address. If you do not wish to participate, you can opt out of receiving invitations.
Is there a deadline for submitting the sample?
You should send the sample as soon as possible after receiving it, but there is no strict deadline. You decide when to send it, but please note the expiry date on the sample tube. It is printed on the label below the hourglass symbol.
Will I be removed from the programme if I don’t return the test?
No, you will not be excluded if you skip one or more rounds. You also do not need to notify us.
Unless you actively opt out, you will continue to receive test kits approximately every two years for up to five rounds.
I had a colonoscopy less than a year ago – do I need to return the test now?
If you had a complete colonoscopy with a well-prepared bowel within the past year, it is unlikely you would benefit from participating now. We recommend discussing this with your doctor. You are welcome to participate again in about two years when the next invitation comes.
I had a colonoscopy 2–3 years ago. Should I participate?
Yes, unless you are already in a follow-up programme with regular colonoscopies. If so, it is unnecessary to participate. If you are unsure, we recommend discussing it with your doctor.
I have gastrointestinal symptoms. Should I send in the test?
Yes, you can, but we strongly recommend contacting your GP for evaluation. The screening programme is designed for people without symptoms. If you have symptoms, further investigation may be needed.
Can haemorrhoids or menstrual blood affect the test results?
Yes, they can. Many people with haemorrhoids or menstruation still participate. However, bleeding can increase the likelihood of a positive test result, leading to a follow-up colonoscopy. It’s important to remember that bleeding may also come from polyps or cancer, even if you have haemorrhoids or are menstruating.
I don’t want to receive invitations. What should I do?
You can opt out of receiving further invitations and test kits.
I'm moving abroad for a while but want to participate later. What do I do?
If you are in the target age group (55–65 and born in 1967 or later), you will receive an invitation and test kit after moving back to Norway. No action is needed.
I'm being monitored with colonoscopy due to a bowel disease. Can/should I still participate?
If you are already in a follow-up programme due to cancer, polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease, participation is not necessary. If in doubt, ask your doctor.
I have a serious chronic illness. Can I still take part?
If you have a serious chronic condition, the disadvantages of participation may outweigh the benefits. We recommend discussing this with your GP. If you already sent in the test and have been referred for a colonoscopy, contact your screening centre so they can assess whether it is safe for you to undergo the procedure.
Call your screening centre ahead of your colonoscopy appointment if you:
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Take blood-thinning medication (e.g. Marevan, Eliquis, Pradaxa, Xarelto, Plavix, Effient, or Lixiana). You may continue taking Albyl-E or other acetylsalicylic acid medications.
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Have a pacemaker or defibrillator
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Have chronic heart, lung, or kidney disease
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Are undergoing or recently completed treatment for a serious illness
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Are in poor general health or require care
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Use medication for diabetes
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Have a known infectious disease or were recently admitted to a healthcare facility outside the Nordic countries
I’ve had my colon surgically removed. Should I still participate?
The Cancer Registry does not have medical information about invitees. If you have had your entire colon removed, you do not need to participate. If you are unsure, ask your doctor.
Does it cost anything to participate?
The stool test is free. If a follow-up colonoscopy is needed, you will pay a co-payment. Bowel preparation medication is covered by the health authority. For travel expenses, see patient travel information on Helsenorge.no.
Privacy
What personal data is registered about me?
The Cancer Registry may collect your name, national ID number, address, municipality of residence, marital status, and place of birth or country of birth. Here you can find more information about privacy and data protection in the screening programme.
How can I opt out of registration of personal data?
You can opt out of having your personal data permanently registered in the Cancer Registry when the screening result is negative (i.e. no sign or suspicion of cancer or precancer).
How can I access the information registered about me?
You have the right to access information registered about you in the Cancer Registry, and to see who has accessed or received your data. A specific request form is required.
Stool Test
How do I take the stool sample?
Instructions are included with your test kit. You can also find the instructions and a short animated video here.
Should the liquid in the tube be there?
Yes, it’s a buffer solution that preserves the sample.
Do I need to do anything with the paper in the plastic bag?
No. The absorbent paper remains in the bag to soak up any potential leakage during mailing.
What if the collection paper tears?
You can place toilet paper in the bowl or use a clean, empty container (like an ice cream box).
Can I order a new test tube?
Yes, you can order a complete new kit via helsenorge.no or by contacting us. You’ll need to provide your full name and date of birth. Kits are usually sent within one week. If you’re only missing part of the kit (e.g., the bag or envelope), contact us and we’ll send what you need.
Can I eat and drink normally before taking the sample?
Yes, there are no dietary restrictions. The test only detects human blood.
What if I can’t send the sample today?
Store the sample in the fridge and send it as soon as possible. It’s stable for up to one week at room temperature and two weeks in the fridge.
What happens if blood above the threshold is detected?
You will receive a letter with the test result. If blood above the threshold is found, you will be referred for a colonoscopy at a screening centre. If you don’t hear anything within two weeks, contact the centre directly.
My result letter says no blood was found above the threshold. What does that mean?
Small amounts of blood in stool are normal. The programme sets a threshold to determine positive or negative results. If blood is below this level, the result is negative.
Colonoscopy
How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?
The screening centre’s appointment letter includes preparation instructions, including how to clean out your bowel. If you have chronic or serious conditions or take specific medications, contact the centre beforehand. Contact details are included in the letter.
Can I take my usual medications before the colonoscopy?
Some medications should be stopped days before your colonoscopy. The letter will provide full details, so read it carefully.
Will travel expenses be reimbursed?
Yes. Visit helsenorge.no or call Patient Travel on 05515 for assistance.
How long does a colonoscopy take, and is it painful?
It usually takes 30–40 minutes. Removing large or multiple polyps can take longer. Some people experience cramps. Pain relief or sedatives are available, but you may not drive the same day.
Can complications occur?
Complications like bleeding or bowel perforation occur in about 1 to 7 per 1,000 procedures. These are usually treated immediately, but hospitalisation may be needed. If you experience abdominal pain, fever, or bleeding afterward, contact the hospital.
Can I go to work after the procedure?
Most people can return to work the same day. If you received sedatives or pain relief, avoid working or driving for the rest of the day.
What happens if polyps or cancer are found?
Most polyps can be removed during the colonoscopy. After a pathologist reviews them, you will receive a letter about the results and any follow-up. If further examination or treatment is needed, this will happen at the hospital.
Why wasn’t I referred to my nearest hospital?
Not all hospitals are screening centres. You’ll be referred to the centre covering your area. All centres must meet specific criteria before starting.
