Press Release: 14 April 2026
Minister for Health Approves Recommendation to Extend the BowelScreen Programme to those aged 50-54
The Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, has today approved a recommendation from the National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC) to extend the age range of BowelScreen to those aged between 50 and 54.
NSAC’s recommendation was based on the findings of a Health Technology Assessment (HTA), completed by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA). The HTA found that extending screening to this age cohort would likely be clinically effective and cost effective.
BowelScreen, the national bowel screening programme, currently invites men and women aged between 57-71 to take the free at-home screening test.
Minister Carroll MacNeill said:
“The expansion of Ireland’s cancer screening programmes is a priority for me as Minister and for this Government, so I am pleased to approve the recommendation from the National Screening Advisory Committee, to extend the BowelScreen programme.
“The incidence rates for bowel (colorectal) cancer are increasing in those aged between 50 and 60. Screening provides an opportunity to detect cancer at an earlier stage, when it is easier to treat. I encourage all those eligible to please engage with BowelScreen and get their free at-home test by visiting hse.ie.
“This decision today builds upon the existing commitment to extend BowelScreen to those aged 55-74. This is not only the right thing to do from a public health perspective, but it will also align Ireland with the European Council Recommendation of Cancer Screening.
”I have written to the Health Service Executive (HSE) requesting an ambitious implementation plan to facilitate the extension on a phased basis.
“I would like to thank the members both HIQA and NSAC for their extensive work in compiling and evaluating the available evidence, which included balancing a range of complex factors in reaching this recommendation”.
Fiona Murphy, Chief Executive of the HSE’s National Screening Service said:
“The Minister’s decision to expand BowelScreen is an important step for people across Ireland and reflects strong evidence that starting bowel screening earlier can save lives.
“By extending bowel screening to younger age groups, we can prevent cancer developing altogether for many people, and also find cancer earlier – when it is generally easier to treat. This expansion means more people will have access to a simple, free test they can do at home, giving them reassurance and, where needed, timely care and treatment.
“We are committed to rolling out this expansion and our focus now is on careful planning so we can expand the programme safely and sustainably, ensuring that everyone who takes part can access the follow-up care they need. We would encourage all those invited to take up this opportunity to protect their health.”