Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month the perfect opportunity for us to remind Borderers who are invited to take part in the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme to accept their invitation.

Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in Scotland but highly treatable if caught at an early stage. The most recent data published by Public Health Scotland, which analyses those invited for Bowel Screening during the invitation period May 2018 – March 2020, shows that almost 70% of Borderers take up their invitation to get checked as part of the Bowel cancer screening programme.

NHS Borders Board Screening Coordinator Julieann Brennan explains: "The early signs of bowel cancer are often hidden, which can mean many people can’t see or feel any symptoms. The most effective way to detect bowel cancer in its earliest stage is through screening.

"All men and women aged 50-74 are invited for bowel screening every two years in Scotland. Anyone aged 75 or over can still take a bowel screening test every two years by simply requesting a kit by calling the helpline on 0800 0121 833.  

"People who receive their bowel screening kit may be put off by the process, but the reality is that more people in the Borders are completing the test and returning it. This means more people have a better chance of bowel cancer being detected early, when the chances of survival are much higher. So please don’t ignore your invitation for the bowel screening programme and follow in the footsteps of your fellow Borderers by taking the test.

"Remember, early detection could save your life. Don't get scared, get checked as the earlier bowel cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.

“It is really important that you don’t delay in making an appointment with your GP if you spot any unusual or persistent changes to your bowel movements, even in between screenings."

To request a bowel screening kit call the Bowel Screening Centre Helpline on 0800 0121 833 or visit their website. 

There is more information on all of the Detect Cancer Early Programmes online.