By Jessica Symonds

Soon to celebrate their 107^th birthday, the Condobolin branch of Rotary remains an active and important group in the Condobolin community.

The ethos of Rotary International is service and in Condobolin they have been holding true to this philosophy. During the month of March, Rotary will be conducting Bowelscan, an initiative of the National Bowelscan Committee Incorporated.

According to Australian Rotary Health, bowel cancer is the most common internal cancer to affect men and women in western society. More than 9000 Australians will be diagnosed as having bowel cancer this year, and over 4500 sufferers will die of the disease.

Bowelscan kits are available in Condobolin at the Shortis and Timmins Pharmacy, for $10. Rotary advises that the Bowelscan test should be taken every year by anyone over the age of 40.

All the kits contain an information sheet which includes all necessary details. Those taking the test must be reminded that they are screening kits for hidden blood in the bowel motions and that these kits are not a test for cancer. They are advised to return their completed kits to the collection points as soon as possible after completing the test.

It is also important to remember that all documents inside the kit must be fully completed and signed appropriately, and must include date of birth.

Patients will be notified if a test is ‘positive’ or ‘negative’. If tested ‘positive’ a letter will also be sent to their nominated doctor, as a ‘positive’ result indicates that further consultation with a doctor is necessary.

Dr Andrew Gilmore, Consultant Surgeon, Orange will continue as the Medical Advisor for the Bowelscan screening program for 2012.

The Federal Government started its own Bowelscan program in 2007 with Bowelscan kits being issued to those people who are celebrating their 50^th, 55^th and 65^th birthdays. There is no need for these people to do the Rotary Bowelscan test.