Bowel cancer remains one of the most treatable and curable forms of cancer when diagnosed at an early stage. Yet, awareness of the screening process often lags behind other cancer checks like mammograms or smear tests.
Understanding Bowel Cancer Screening in the UK
Bowel cancer screening is a relatively recent addition to the UK's national cancer screening programme, having been introduced in England in 2006. This compares to breast screening, which has been established since 1988. Consequently, screening for bowel cancer frequently remains under the radar for many individuals.
Current Screening Uptake Statistics
Ahead of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month in April, Bowel Cancer UK analysed the latest screening data from NHS integrated care boards (ICBs). The findings revealed that the national uptake average for the bowel screening programme in England stands at 71%, meaning 29% of eligible individuals do not complete their tests.
Regional variations show NHS Devon ICB achieving the highest screening uptake at 76%, while NHS North West London ICB records the lowest uptake at 56%.
Eligibility for Bowel Cancer Screening
Genevieve Edwards, chief executive at Bowel Cancer UK, explains the eligibility criteria: "Bowel cancer screening uses a test called a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) which looks for blood in a stool sample. The test is automatically sent by post every two years to individuals aged 50 to 74 in England, Scotland, and Wales."
"In Northern Ireland, the starting age is currently 60," Edwards notes. "We campaigned successfully to lower the age from 60 to 50 across most of the UK because evidence clearly demonstrates benefits from screening at that earlier age."
After age 74, individuals are not automatically sent test kits but can request one every two years if they wish to continue screening.
The Simple FIT Test Procedure
Edwards describes the straightforward process: "The test kit contains a small tube with a screw cap and an attached stick featuring a scoop at the end. You simply need to catch a stool sample before it contacts toilet water, using either a container or toilet paper. Then, scoop a small amount to coat the bottom of the stick, screw it back into the tube, place it in the provided box, and post it."
"Results typically return within two weeks," Edwards adds. "If blood is detected in your sample, you'll usually be referred for a colonoscopy, which can identify cancer or precancerous polyps that might require removal."
Addressing Common Concerns and Barriers
Edwards acknowledges potential hesitations: "Some people find bowel screening daunting because it involves stool samples, and discussing bowel habits can feel embarrassing. However, evidence shows that once people complete their first test, they typically continue with subsequent screenings because they realise how simple the process is."
She highlights another unique challenge: "Unlike other screening programmes with scheduled appointments, bowel screening relies on individuals completing an at-home test. Many people have good intentions but often postpone or forget about it."
Accessing Screening Tests
For those who believe they're due a screening test but haven't received one, Edwards advises contacting the local screening hub. Individuals under 50 who experience symptoms such as blood in stool, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits should consult their GP to request a FIT kit.
If results don't arrive within two weeks, individuals can call the free bowel cancer screening helpline at 0800 707 6060.
The Critical Importance of Participation
Edwards emphasises the life-saving potential: "Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK and the second biggest cancer killer. This is particularly concerning because bowel cancer is treatable, preventable, and curable when detected early."
"When diagnosed at stage one, more than nine in ten people survive bowel cancer. However, if diagnosed at the latest stage, survival rates plummet to less than one in ten," she explains. "The screening programme detects tiny amounts of blood that might indicate bowel cancer before noticeable symptoms appear, significantly increasing survival chances."
As Bowel Cancer Awareness Month approaches each April, understanding the screening process, eligibility criteria, and the profound benefits of early detection becomes increasingly vital for public health across the United Kingdom.
