Following the recent tragic death of 40-year-old cancer campaigner, blogger, broadcaster and former teacher Dame Deborah James from bowel cancer public awareness has been raised of this disease which, if caught early, can be so much more easily treated and cured.
As local GPs we’re really keen to encourage people to take up the opportunity to get screened as it helps diagnose cancers early and really does save Lives.
Bowel screening uptake is lower than the national average in several parts of the South and West Herefordshire Primary Care network Area.
The bowel cancer screening test (FIT) is a simple stool (poo) sample test which looks for blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of bowel cancer. It is able to detect even tiny traces of blood that are not visible to the naked eye.
Bowel screening test kits are sent out to everyone in England aged 60-74 who is registered with a GP. The program slowly being expanded to everyone over 50.
Bowel screening is for people who don’t have any symptoms – if you notice a change in your bowel habit to looser stool (poo)/ constipation, blood in the stool, weight loss, a lump in your tummy, excessive tiredness or tummy pain contact your GP. They will discuss your symptoms and arrange appropriate tests for you.
We know that sometimes at the moment it can be difficult to get through to your GP. If you are concerned you have symptoms which may relate to cancer let the receptionist know as this can help get you the right appointment as quickly as possible.
If you need a replacement kit or are over 75, you can ask for a kit to be sent to you by phoning the bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 60 60.
For more information see www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/bowel-cancer
Dr. Edwina Gallagher (Alton Street Surgery)
Dr. Emily Jackson (Pendeen Surgery)
Dr. Sion Gibby (Fownhope surgery)
Dr. Esther Scotland (Golden Valley surgery)
Dr. Rosie Wellesley (Kingstone surgery)
Dr. Andrea Johnson (Much Birch Surgery)