Around 750 lives have been saved in Scotland following the introduction of a national bowel screening programme six years ago, according to Government figures.
The figures were released to coincide with Nudge Day, a national day of action encouraging people in Scotland to "nudge" family members aged 50-74 to get tested for bowel cancer.
Just over half of those eligible for the programme (54.5%) actually do the test.
Health Secretary Alex Neil said: "Bowel cancer can have a devastating effect on families across Scotland, and the number of lives saved could be far higher if more people took the screening test.
"Everyone has a part to play. It is the best way to detect the hidden signs of bowel cancer."
Emma Anderson, from Bowel Cancer UK, said: "Bowel cancer is very treatable, especially if diagnosed at an early stage. So it is important to use and return a screening kit if you receive it."
She added: "Some people are uncomfortable about doing it, or talking about the subject, but family and friends should encourage those eligible to do the test."
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