It is hoped screening will save dozens of lives a year

The screening programme will start in March 2007 and will be be available in all health board areas from 2009.

The move to combat the second most deadly cancer in Scotland follows pilots in Tayside, Grampian and Fife.

Health Minister Andy Kerr said the screening could potentially save more than 150 lives a year. It will cost �20m over three years.

Men and women between 50 and 74 will be screened every two years in the programme.

Early detection

Mr Kerr said: "Reducing cancer deaths is one of the top health priorities for the Scottish Executive.

"If a cancer is identified early, treatment can be delivered quickly and survival rates improve. That is why screening is so important."

Mr Kerr said the screening programme was aimed at reducing mortality rates by 15%, which could save more than 150 lives a year.

Testing kits will be posted to 650,000 people in the target age range every year.

The tests are completed at home and then returned for screening, with patients receiving results within two weeks.